CannMed Coffee Talk: Recent Episodes
Medicinal Genomics
Conversations with the leading minds in cannabis science, medicine, cultivation, and safety testing.
Dr. Kristofer Marsh is the Chief Scientific Officer of Smithers Cannabis Testing Services Division, as well the State Director for Smithers’ New York laboratory. He has over 9 years of experience in the Cannabis testing industry spanning operations in 11 U.S. states and is a member of the Cannabis Science Section with the American Council of Independent Laboratories (ACIL).
At CannMed 26, Kris presented “Pyrocannabinoids: An investigation into smoked cannabinoid isolates”
During our conversation, we discuss:
- What pyrocannabinoids are and how they’re formed
- Why THCA, CBD, and THCV isolates were chosen as the focus of the study
- What new cannabinoids were created after those isolates were combusted
- How this change in cannabinoids raises questions about the entourage effect in smoked versus ingested cannabis
- Next steps for pyrocannabinoid research
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Cannabis Chemistry Subdivision of the American Chemical Society (CANN)
Since 2015, CANN has been building a strong network of scientists in the cannabis space to promote scientific innovation, safety, and development through education, research, and the empowerment of the scientific community.
To learn more about what CANN has to offer please visit their website at www.cann-acs.org.
Additional Resources
- Real Isolates
- Smithers
- Connect with Kris on Linkedin
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Alisha Holloway is the Chief Scientific Officer at Phylos where she leads the R&D group that focuses on foundational genomic research, development of high-throughput genetic and chemical testing capabilities, discovery of genetic markers, and the development of new cannabis varieties via classical and marker-assisted breeding.
At CannMed 26, she will present “Enhancing Cannabis Quality via Marker-Assisted Selection for Improved Solventless Extraction Yield”
During our conversation, we discuss:
- What solventless extraction is and why it’s gaining popularity
- The traits that make a cannabis plant a “good washer”
- How Alisha’s team designed and conducted a washability study across hundreds of plant samples
- How they identified genetic markers for good washers that hold up across diverse genetic backgrounds
- How marker-assisted selection accelerates the breeding process
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: The Cannabis Research Center & Coalition
The Cannabis Research Center & Coalition (CRC), founded by Dr. Allison Justice, is a professional group dedicated to advancing cannabis cultivation and post harvest processing. CRC partners with Universities and The Hemp Mine LLC, an industry leader in cannabis genetics and production, to tackle the cultivation and post harvest challenges facing today’s cannabis industry.
Their cooperative research model, inspired by successful horticulture and greenhouse research collaborations, allows members to benefit from pooled resources, gaining access to cutting-edge, science-based research at a fraction of the cost.
Learn more at cannabisrc.org
Additional Resources
- Phylos.bio, Instagram, Linkedin
- [Blog] What Makes a Cannabis Variety “Wash Well”? The Science Behind High-Yield Hash Plants
- https://www.instagram.com/shwale/
- Register for CannMed 26
- Meet the CannMed 26 Speakers
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Morgan Keefer is a Board Member for the Institute of Cannabis Science, and an experienced cannabis testing laboratory accreditation professional. She has presented at conferences, including CannMed, Pittcon, and Cannabis Science Conference regarding the importance of inter-laboratory comparison and method validation for the cannabis industry.
At CannMed 26, Morgan will present Frequently Identified Nonconformances Applicable to Cannabis Testing, which will explore some of the challeges that come with operating a cannabis lab as well as opportunities for improvement.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- Cannabis labs must be ISO/IEC 17025 accredited to prove they are competent to test for potency, contaminants, and other critical safety markers that protect consumers.
- Inconsistent state regulations and federal illegality create unique challenges for cannabis labs, including the need to rapidly validate new test methods as rules change.
- Sample manipulation by producers (i.e., bleaching samples or inflating potency) is a real problem that undermines lab results and puts consumers at risk.
- Many labs fall short on method validation and measurement uncertainty, sometimes reporting results for years without fully validating their methods across all product types.
- Consumers can protect themselves by requesting certificates of analysis, asking labs to confirm their results directly, and watching for measurement uncertainty disclosures.
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: CANN
Since 2015, CANN has been building a strong network of scientists in the cannabis space to promote scientific innovation, safety, and development through education, research, and the empowerment of the scientific community. To learn more about what CANN has to offer please visit their website at www.cann-acs.org.
Additional Resources
- Institute of Cannabis Science Tip Line – tipline@cannsci.org
- Coalition for Cannabis Worker Safety – Cannabisworkersafety@gmail.com
- Register for CannMed 26
- Meet the CannMed 26 Speakers
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Harold Hom is the Founder of PhytoRX. He has dedicated his career to the art and science of nanoemulsions, transforming plant-derived active ingredients into stable, predictable and effective formulations.
He founded PhytoRX is to bring consistency and efficacy into the plant-based therapeutics, and give clinicians a tool they can confidently use.
At CannMed 26, Harold will Moderate a panel titled “Drink Your Cannabionoids – How it changes cannabis research and patient care”, which brings together leading clinicians, researchers, and innovators to explore how emulsion-based cannabinoids are improving outcomes in oncology, geriatrics, and clinical trials.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- How cannabis emulsion technology solvers composition, degradation, and absorption challenges in medical cannabis
- How turning oil-based cannabinoids into water-compatible emulsions improves bioavailability, dosing precision, and patient adherence
- How emulsion-based products improve the “therapeutic window” via predictable PK profiles that smoking, tinctures, and edibles can’t match
- Why drinking cannabinoids better fits patients’ existing habits, afterall, people are already drinking fluids throughout the day.
- A preview of the CannMed Emulsion Panel
- and more
Thanks to this Episode’s Sponsor: PhytoRX
PhytoRX was born from the expertise of Vertosa, a pioneer in advanced infusion technology with years of experience delivering precision and consistency for next-generation botanical therapeutics. The product improves on traditional cannabinoid formats by delivering accurate dosing, rapid absorption, optimized bioavailability, and ease of use.
Go to phytorx.co to learn more, and if you decide to give it a try, use promocode CannMed at checkout to get 15% off.
Additional Resources
- PhytoRX
- Register for CannMed 26 Today
Dr. Hemant Kumar Bid is a top educator in the field of Biotechnology and Medical cannabis. He serves as Program Director for the Morehouse School of Medicine, using his extensive background in biotechnology research and cannabinoid research to educate graduate students and infuse the industry with science-backed legitimacy.
Recently, Hemant has become deeply engaged with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning through his academic, clinical, and program development work.
During our conversation we discuss:
- How AI and machine learning are accelerating drug discovery, enabling personalized treatment, and analyzing complex genomic and clinical data.
- How the Morehouse School of Medicine is updating its biotechnology curriculum to integrate AI/ML
- Why the accuracy of AI predictions depends entirely on data quality fed into the models, making standardization, diverse representation, and clean datasets critical for success
- How AI can help reduce trial-and-error prescribing in favor of personalized care for specific patient conditions, optimized dosing, and potential adverse effects and/or drug interactions.
- Major challenges that need to be overcome before AI and ML can truely transform medical cannabis treatment.
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Tikun Olam
Tikun Olam is the world’s first licensed medical cannabis company. With over 20 years of clinical cannabis research, Tikun Olam has conducted 7 clinical trials and published over two dozen academic journal studies using its heirloom cultivars. Tikun Olam products are designed for specific needs: pain relief, better sleep, digestive comfort, and neurological balance — all standardized for consistent, predictable results. If you’re curious to learn more about their products or research, they even offer a free one-on-one consultation with a licensed nurse.
Shop online or find a dispensary at tikunolam.com
Additional Resources
- Register for CannMed 26
- Meet the CannMed 26 Speakers
- Review the Podcast
Ansley Burtch is a Post-Baccalaureate Scholar in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at the University of Tennessee. Her undergraduate and post-baccalaureate research focuses on plant-pathogen interactions using computational genomics and transcriptomic approaches. She has also investigated the production of toxins by fungi and their impacts on human health.
At CannMed 26 she will present “Decoding Natural Viroid Tolerance: Genomic and Transcriptomic Analysis of HLVd Response in Cannabis”.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- Why the research team decided to pursue natural tolerance as a Hop Latent Viroid defense strategy rather than resistance
- Real-world observations that identified the Jamaican Lion cultivar as having a natural tolerance that keeps the viroid localized in the roots
- Creating a chromosome-scale genome assembly of Jamaican Lion to enable more confident identification of candidate genes and pathways involved in tolerance.
- Early findings suggesting the viroid activates genes that control root metabolism, as well as the anthocyanin and betalin pathways, during infection.
- The long-term goal, to identify specific genetic markers linked to tolerance so breeders can intentionally select for viroid-tolerant cultivars.
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients
Advanced Nutrients will once again be a partner level sponsor for the CannMed 26 Summit and this year they have put together an amazing package for cultivators.
Advanced Cultivator Package which includes
- Full Access to all the presentations, networking events, and meals at the CannMed 26 summit
- Accomodations at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe
- An elite package of Advanced Nutrients 8th Gen Fertilizers – enough for a complete crop valued at $11,126*
- 1x StrainSEEK® Whole Genome Sequence, valued at $547
Provided By: Medicinal Genomics
In all worth upwards of $14,000, but you can get it for just $3,499
Check out the details at cannmedevents.com/packages
Additional Resources
- Register for CannMed 26
- Meet the CannMed 26 Speakers
- Review the Podcast
Manuel Sosa leads the analytical testing and research team at Abstrax Tech. In his role, Manny uses advanced techniques such as Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography and HPLC to conduct rigorous tests and refine Abstrax SOPs to improve precision and efficiency.
At CannMed 26, Manny will present “Temperature-Controlled Butane Extraction Minimizes Waxes While Preserving Cannabinoids and VOCs”, which explores how temperature affects the quality of butane extracts.
During our conversation, we discuss
- Butane extraction temperature’s significant effect on wax content
- How cannabinoid and terpene yields remain stable across temperature ranges
- How Manny’s team chemically quantified and characterized waxes and fats using 2D gas chromatography
- Whether colder extraction temperatures can eliminate the need for winterization
- Why inhaled alkanes are an open safety question worth studying
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: CANN
Since 2015, CANN has been building a strong network of scientists in the cannabis space to promote scientific innovation, safety, and development through education, research, and the empowerment of the scientific community. To learn more about what CANN has to offer please visit their website at www.cann-acs.org.
Additional Resources
- Abstrax Tech Research
- Register for CannMed 26
- Meet the CannMed 26 Speakers
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Mohsin Maqbool is a pediatric neurologist and sleep specialist based in Dallas–Fort Worth, Texas. His work focuses on the intersection of neurodevelopment, sleep, and cannabinoid therapeutics in autism spectrum disorder. He is particularly interested in how cannabinoid formulations may influence sleep regulation, behavior, and quality of life in children with autism.
At CannMed 26, Mohsin will present “Autism, Sleep, and Medicinal Cannabis: Evaluating 18-Month Efficacy and Safety Outcomes”
During our conversation, we discuss:
- The gaps in current sleep medicine for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Results from Mohsin’s 18-month longitudinal study including improvements to total sleep time, sleep onset and maintenance, and overall quality of sleep
- The method of finding the effective dose for each patient
- Cannabinoids’ effect on the duration of REM sleep and what the daytime implications are
- Thinking of cannabis as a tool to supplement conventional ASD medications and not a replacement
- Future research directions – using wearables and EEG to investigate how cannabinoids affect sleep architecture and brain physiology, as well as using biomarkers to see whether patients are a good candidate for cannabinoid therapies
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: The Society of Cannabis Clinicians
The Society of Cannabis Clinicians is a nonprofit professional association of physicians and other healthcare providers. It provides continuing education—for clinicians, patients, and all concerned about the medical use of cannabis and best practices in clinical care. SCC physicians have been monitoring cannabis use by patients for 20 years and have compiled a wealth of clinical evidence and treatment strategies that will be validated by clinical trials in the years ahead.
To learn more about SCC and to join visit cannabisclinicians.org.
Additional Resources
- Effects of Medical Cannabis Treatment for Autistic Children on Family Accommodation: An Open-Label Mixed-Methods Study
- [Book] Cannabis Is Medicine: How Medical Cannabis and CBD Are Healing Everything from Anxiety to Chronic Pain by Dr. Bonni Goldstein
- Register for CannMed 26
- Meet the CannMed 26 Speakers
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Zamir Punja is a Professor of Plant Biotechnology at Simon Fraser University in Canada. His research interests include the etiology and management of plant diseases and the applications of plant biotechnology for disease management. Since 2018, his work has focused on cannabis, identifying and describing a range of previously unreported pathogens affecting the crop and evaluating various methods for disease management.
Zamir is CannMed regular, having presented at 5 previous events. His presentations are always a highlight of the event because they often feature stunning electron microscope images showing plant structures and pathogens up close. In fact, his CannMed 22 presentation about glandular trichomes has gotten more than 300,000 views on our YouTube page, making it the most viewed CannMed presentation.
Zamir will again present at CannMed 26, this time about non-glandular trichomes in a presentation titled “Non-glandular trichomes in cannabis plants can secrete salts”.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- Non-glandular trichomes: What they are and what they do.
- How leaf spots, initially mistaken for disease, led to the finding that cannabis secretes excess fertilizer salts through these trichomes.
- Theories on why the plant would develop the ability to actively excrete excess salts.
- Practical guidance for cultivators on how to distinguish overfertilization from disease.
- Future research directions — comparing salt-tolerant vs. non-tolerant strains under varying salinity levels and exploring whether this mechanism explains cannabis’s resilience in drought-prone, high-salt environments.
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients
Advanced Nutrients will once again be a partner-level sponsor for the CannMed 26 Summit, and this year they have put together an amazing package for cultivators that includes:
- Full Access to all the presentations, networking events, and meals at the CannMed 26 summit
- Accommodations at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe
- An elite package of Advanced Nutrients 8th Gen Fertilizers – enough for a complete crop valued at $11,126*
- 1x StrainSEEK® Whole Genome Sequence, valued at $547 – Provided by Medicinal Genomics
That’s a $14,000 value for just $3,499!
Learn more at cannmedevents.com/package-options
Additional Resources
- [Article] Non-glandular trichomes (epidermal hairs) in cannabis plants are capable of excreting nutrient salts under excessive fertilizer regimes
- [Video] Exploring the fascinating development of cannabinoid-producing trichomes
- Register for CannMed 26
- Meet the CannMed 26 Speakers
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Codi Peterson is a pediatric pharmacist with over a decade of experience specializing in acute care and pediatric emergency medicine. He currently serves as a clinical pharmacist at Rady’s Children’s Health of Orange County, where he works night shifts in the Emergency Department and applies his expertise to optimize medication safety and therapeutic outcomes in children. Beyond the hospital, Codi is deeply committed to education and mentorship. He is an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of California, Irvine, where he teaches cannabis pharmacology and therapeutics, and a guest lecturer at OCEMT, instructing paramedics and firefighters in applied pharmacology.
He is also an active researcher on Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), having led one of the largest patient surveys on the condition to date. At CannMed 26, Codi will share the results of that study in a presentation titled, “Through the Eyes of a Patient: Integrating Story and Science to Demystify CHS”.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- Defining CHS and explaining why it is difficult to research
- Cannabis use patterns among CHS sufferers
- Whether contaminants and pesticides play a role in developing CHS
- The prodromal phase and early warning signs of CHS
- Sex-based differences in CHS patients
- Understanding the biological mechanisms behind the development of CHS
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: The Cannigma
The Cannigma takes an evidence-based approach to cannabis content – from safety to cooking to medical research – and makes all the information digestible and useful.
They are committed to making sure scientific information is accessible to anyone who needs it – be it to relieve their own suffering or that of a loved one, to learn a bit more, or even just for fun.
Learn more at cannigma.com
Additional Resources
- Surveying Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Patients with Megan Mbengue and Codi Peterson [Video]
- Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome What You Need to Know [Video]
- what-is-chs.com
- Connect with Codi (Instagram, LinkedIn)
- The Cannigma
- Register for CannMed 26 – Early Bird Ends February 20th!
Dr. Beth Weise is the Research and Overdose Prevention Coordinator for The Sidewalk Project, a non-profit organization that aids unhoused, drug-using, survivor & sex worker populations by providing direct services including crisis response, system advocacy, wound care, job placement, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and creative community resources for mental health. Her work aims to influence future drug policy with novel evidence-based research that also advocates and empowers people who use drugs to feel safe and prevent fatal overdose.
At CannMed 26, Beth will present “Cannabidiol to Mitigate Opioid Induced Respiratory Depression“. During our conversation, we discuss:
- What causes Opioid Induced Respiratory Depression and how cannabinoids play a role
- How CBD can be used in combination with Naloxone to reduce withdrawal-related side effects
- How Beth’s research can be applied in real-world scenarios
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Humanity Heroes
Humanity Heroes provides compassionate support to the unhoused community by delivering essential supplies and resources directly to those in need. Humanity Heroes partners with other nonprofits by empowering them to extend their reach and impact within their own communities. Together, they strive to create a world where every person has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Learn more at JoinHumanityHeroes.org
Additional Resources:
- THRRIV.org
- [Webinar] Bridging the Gap: Tech-Supported Peer Connections to Reduce – Overdose Fatalities –
- Register for CannMed 26
Dr. Mandip Sachdeva is currently a Professor and Section leader, Pharmaceutics at College of Pharmacy at Florida A & M University (FAMU), Tallahassee, Florida. Over his career, Mandip has delivered more than 250 plenaries, keynote and invited talks in international events and meetings and produced more than 190 original publications.His research interests include cancer drug delivery, 3D-printing of tumor cells, and formulating and developing targeted nanoparticles, exosomes and cannabinoids for cancer treatments.
During our conversation, Mandip previews his CannMed 26 oral presentation titled, “Cannabigerol Potentiates Chemotherapy through Multi-Modal Tumor Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer“, which includes insights into his research on using cannabinoids (particularly CBG) to treat pancreatic cancer—one of the most difficult cancers to treat. We cover:
- The process Mandip’s team used to determine CBG had the best anti-cancer effects against pancreatic cancer
- CBG’s mechanism of action, which targets multiple pathways related to immune regulation, cell death, and tumor migration control
- Why cannabinoids are best used as adjuncts to chemotherapy and not as a standalone treatment
- Higher doses of CBG (up to 100 mg/kg) were non-toxic and further extended survival when combined with reduced chemo doses
- Future research directions, including new combinations of cannabinoids and chemotherapy as well as new formulations for better absorption and bioavailability
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Healer
Healer is a trusted, physician-developed medical cannabis brand founded to address the challenges of helping patients and health providers get the best results with safe, reliably dosable products and education on how to best use them. Healer’s distinctive product formulations and educational material are based on the work of leading cannabis clinician, Dr. Dustin Sulak, D.O.
Learn More at healer.com
Dr. Ryan Vandrey is a professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Johns Hopkins. Dr. Johannes Thrul is an Associate Professor at Johns Hopkins. They both work for the Cannabis Health & Research Initiative, which is a collaboration between two organizations with years of experience in medicinal cannabis research: Johns Hopkins University and Realm of Caring. Simply put, CHRI is a platform of data collection and dissemination focused on the health outcomes of medicinal cannabis at the patient level, and they have created a number of valuable resources to help cannabis medicine researchers, including:
- A data repository that contains de-identified data collected through CHRI
- Research Library that contains more than 3000 published scientific articles related to the health effects of cannabis
- A set of validated questionnares that clinicians can use when speaking to patients about cannabis –
- and more
The CHRI is also currently recruiting participants for their National Cannabis Study, which is a collection of firsthand experiences with medicinal cannabis among individuals with various health conditions. Specifically, they are looking for participants who plan to use cannabis but have not yet started cannabis use. So if that’s you or someone you know, we highly suggest you consider participating in the study because the research has the potential to impact best practices in healthcare and the cannabis industry.
During our conversation, Ryan and Johannes shared more details about the CHRI and the National Cannabis Study, and I think you will agree that their mission aligns perfectly with the CannMed Community.
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Realm of Caring
Founded in 2013, Realm of Caring (RoC) serves anyone in need of more information about cannabinoid therapies. Through revolutionary CBD and Cannabis research, innovative education, and life-changing grants, RoC seeks to facilitate and encourage the mainstream acceptance of transformative, plant powered therapies to benefit individuals and families and serve healthcare providers as well as the hemp and cannabis industries.
Learn more at realmofcaring.org
Additional Resources
- Cannabis Health Research Initiative website – cannabisandhealth.org
Dr. Bonni Goldstein is the Medical Director of Canna-Centers Wellness & Education, a leading cannabis medicine specialty practice, and the CEO of GoldsteinWellness.com, an educational platform dedicated to helping licensed healthcare professionals incorporate medical cannabis into their practices.
Bonni has evaluated thousands of patients for medical cannabis treatment, with a special focus on treating children with intractable epilepsy, autism, and cancer.
She authored the book Cannabis is Medicine: How Medical Cannabis and CBD are Healing Everything from Anxiety to Chronic Pain, and serves on the board of the International Alliance for Cannabinoid Medicine and Autism Safe Haven. Bonni has also been the medical director for the CannMed Medical Practicum since 2022.
During our conversation, we discussed:
- Exciting updates to the CannMed Medical Practicum, including new topics (sports and recovery, cannabinoids and pregnacy, Pharmacokinetics and Product Formulation, and more)
- Findings from a California medical cannabis study showing diverse patients, high efficacy, and research gaps
- The importance of medical guidance when using cannabinoid therapies for complex conditions
- Safety issues with synthetic or semi-synthetic cannabinoids, and the importance of natural compounds and dosing education
- Goldstein Wellness as a resource for clinicians and patients, providing education, patient-clinician connections, and vetted product access
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: The Society of Cannabis Clinicians
The Society of Cannabis Clinicians is a nonprofit professional association of physicians and other healthcare providers. It provides continuing education—for clinicians, patients, and all concerned about the medical use of cannabis and best practices in clinical care. SCC physicians have been monitoring cannabis use by patients for 20 years and have compiled a wealth of clinical evidence and treatment strategies that will be validated by clinical trials in the years ahead.
To learn more about SCC and to join visit cannabisclinicians.org.
Additional Resources
- GoldsteinWellness.com
- CannMed Medical Practicum
No episode this week. We had to call a last-minute audible.
You may have heard that the bill to restart the federal government contained language that would ban hemp products containing THC, which has sent the entire hemp industry, including many CannMed supporters and contributors into chaos. As a result, the guest we had scheduled for this week’s episode asked to reschedule, which we were happy to oblige.
But don’t worry, we will be back with a new episode next week featuring the always wonderful Bonni Goldstein. She has some exciting details to share about the CannMed 26 Medical Practicum, which is going to feature tons of new topics. So please tune in for that one.
In the meantime, I’d like to remind everyone that we are accepting abstracts for the CannMed 26 Summit through the end of the week. The deadline is this Saturday, November 15th. Submit at cannmedevents.com/apply
If you have done any novel research in the areas of cannabis science, medicine, cultivation, or safety and testing, we encourage you to submit an abstract for consideration. If selected, not only will you have the opportunity to present your work to the industry leaders in attendance at CannMed 26, but a recording of the presentation will be added to the CannMed Archive and Medicinal Genomics YouTube page for additional exposure after the event. You will also get an invitation from me to appear on the CannMed Coffee Talk podcast, if that’s something you’re interested in.
See you next week!
Dr. Hemant Kumar Bid is a top educator in the field of Biotechnology and Medical Cannabis, where he uses his extensive background in biotechnology research and cannabinoid research to educate cannabis and biotechnology professionals and infuse the industry with science-backed legitimacy.
In addition to serving as a Program Director for the Morehouse School of Medicine and teaching graduate students, Hemant also serves as a Scientific Advisor for Essentia Scientific, a company that delivers an array of cannabinoid product solutions, including acidic cannabinoids, with their patented water-as-solvent extraction technology.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- What are cannabinoid acids and how do they differ from the neutral cannabinoids
- Why have cannabinoid acids been traditionally overlooked in research and consumer products
- How THCA produces different effects than THC
- Why CBDA is more bioavailable and more potent than CBD
- How new extraction and stabilization techniques are helping make cannabinoids acids more accessible
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: CANN
Since 2015, CANN has been building a strong network of scientists in the cannabis space to promote scientific innovation, safety, and development through education, research, and the empowerment of the scientific community. To learn more about what CANN has to offer please visit their website at www.cann-acs.org.
Additional Resources
- Essentia Scientific Website
- Email Hemant – Hibid@msm.edu
- Submit Your Abstract for CannMed 26
- Meet the CannMed 26 Advisory Board
Caitlyn Krebs is a biotech executive with over 20 years of experience advancing therapeutics, diagnostics, and digital health innovations. She is the Co-Founder and CEO of Nalu Bio, where she leads the development of next-generation cannabinoid-inspired therapeutics with pharmaceutical-grade quality and scalability. Over her career, Caitlyn has completed more than 50 strategic partnerships and product launches across biopharma, diagnostics, and digital health.
Nalu Bio recently announced positive results for a cannabinoid-based therapeutic for endometriosis, a condition that affects 200 million women worldwide.
During our conversation, we discussed:
- Understanding Endometriosis – symptoms, diagnosis, and current treatment options
- How Millions of women with endometriosis are using CBD or THC to self-treat symptoms
- What makes the endocannabinoid system a prime target for for endometriosis
- How Nalu Bio uses an AI platform to accelerate the development of novel, consistent, and non-addictive cannabinoid molecules
- The potential for broader applications for cannabinoid-based therapeutics, similar to GLP-1 therapies
The timeline for future clinical trials and potential FDA-approval
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: The Society of Cannabis Clinicians
The Society of Cannabis Clinicians’ Med Cann conference offers a rare opportunity for clinicians to dive deep into the clinical realities and therapeutic potential of medical cannabis and psychedelics. Designed with healthcare providers in mind, their sessions focus on case-based learning, emerging protocols, and real-world challenges—offering practical insights that can be immediately applied in your practice.
Learn more at cannabisclinicians.org and use code “CP15” to receive 15% Off Your Registration
Additional Resources
- NaluBio.com
- Big Data Begins to Crack the Case of Endometriosis (UCSF)
- CannMed Call for Abstracts
Dr. Todd Michael is a leading researcher specializing in genome sequencing and analysis, currently serving as a Research Professor at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies and an Adjunct Professor at the University of California, San Diego. His research has made significant contributions to understanding plant genome architecture, particularly through the study of unique and specialized plants that offer insights into adaptive strategies. His innovative work on pangenome tools and long-read sequencing technologies has advanced the understanding of how plant genomes are organized and how they adapt to specific environmental conditions.
At CannMed 25, Todd presented “Cannabis Pangenome Exposes Minor Cannabinoid Pathway Potential”, which described how his team integrated 193 cannabis genomes to identify extensive genetic and structural diversity and highlight potential breeding bottlenecks.
During our conversation, we discussed:
- What is a pangenome and why has it replaced single reference genomes
- Why cannabis is the most interesting plant genome Todd has worked with
- What has caused cannabis to be one of the world’s most diverse plants
- How transposable elements AKA “jumping genes” contribute to cannabinoid synthase
- The potential risks of excluding males plants from breeding
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients
Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries.
Learn more at AdvancedNutrients.com
Additional Resources
- Michael Lab Website
- CannMed Video Archive
- CannMed 25 Photo Gallery
Dr. Emily Lindley is Assistant Professor of Orthopedics and Director of the Colorado Cannabis Research Consortium. Her team’s research aims to identify non-opioid alternatives for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain. One such alternative that has gained increased recognition in recent years is medical cannabis, and her lab is currently studying the health effects of cannabis and cannabinoids for chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Dr. Rachael Rzasa Lynn is a board certified in pain medicine physician and is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of Colorado, where she is the Associate Program Director for the Pain Medicine Fellowship. Her research includes investigations in opioid pharmacology and the use of cannabis for chronic pain.
Emily and Rachael co-authored a poster presented at the most recent ICRS conference titled, Recruitment Challenges in Clinical Studies of Cannabis
During our conversation, we discussed:
- How recruitment for cannabis clinical trials differs from traditional clinical trials
- Why prior experience with cannabis is considered a negative for patient recruitment
- How legal concerns and stigma can deter cannabis-naive patients from enrolling
- Why the particiapnt drop out rate is higher in cannabis trials
- How rescheduling may affect patient recruitment future trials
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: The Society of Cannabis Clinicians
The Society of Cannabis Clinicians’ Med Cann conference offers a rare opportunity for clinicians to dive deep into the clinical realities and therapeutic potential of medical cannabis and psychedelics. Designed with healthcare providers in mind, their sessions focus on case-based learning, emerging protocols, and real-world challenges—offering practical insights that can be immediately applied in your practice.
Learn more at cannabisclinicians.org and use code “CP15” to receive 15% Off Your Registration
Additional Resources
- Recruitment Challenges in Clinical Studies of Cannabis [Poster]
- Lindley Lab at the University of Colorado
Dr. Jose Lime is a Professor at Southern Illinois University and the principal investigator in the Cannabis Biology and Cultivation Systems lab. He and his team focus on determining how to leverage environmental controls (light intensity, duration, quality, temperature, and CO2), plant nutrition, biostimulants, and hormones to improve plant production. Moreover, the research group is developing techniques to optimize plant yields and quality based on key crop steering traits that increase sustainability and efficiency via plant physiological, biochemical, and agricultural approaches.
During our conversation, we discussed several recent studies that Jose and his team have published, including:
- Using mechanical stimulation and high stress training to increase production of secondary metabolites
- Applying plant hormones to increase trichome density
- Assessing how drought stress affects plant yield and potency
- Standardizing cloning methods for plant propagation
- Developing standards for measuring trichome density
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients
Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries.
Learn more at AdvancedNutrients.com
Additional Resources
- DrLeme.com
- Methyl Jasmonate and Ammonium Bicarbonate: Distinct and Synergistic Impacts on Indoor Cannabis Production Dynamics
- The Role of Jasmonates in Modulating Growth, Trichome Density, and Cannabinoid Accumulation in Cannabis sativa L.
- The Effects of Water-Deficit Stress on Cannabis sativa L. Development and Production of Secondary Metabolites: A Review
- From Bracts to Buds: Developing Reliable Methods for Trichome Density Assessment in Cannabis sativa L.
- Accumulation of Trigonelline in the Leaves of Cannabis sativa L. in Response to Water-Deficit Stress
- Implementation of a Standardized Cloning and Propagation Protocol for Optimizing Cannabis sativa L. Cultivation
Dr. Mark Scialdone is a recognized expert in the field of organic chemistry, specializing in natural product chemistry, including plant oil extraction, analysis, and chemical modification. He is an inventor of 37 issued US patents and has authored 17 peer-reviewed publications, during more than two decades of fundamental and product development research. He has given numerous invited lectures at more than 40 different academic institutions and international symposia.
At CannMed 25, Mark participated in the Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids panel, which explored the rapid rise of products containing chemically transformed cannabinoids to exploit the 2018 Farm Bill loophole. He also presented a poster that explained the process for chemically converting cannabinoids in more detail.
During our conversation we discussed:
- Why producers and manufacturers would want to convert one cannabinoid into another
- Common methods for cannabinoid conversion
- Safety risks associated with chemical cannabinoid conversion
- The legality of these compounds
- How these compouns and these products are affecting the legal cannabis market
- The therapeutic potential of novel, chemically-converted cannabinoids
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Cannabis & Tech Today
Cannabis & Tech Today is the premier publication for the business, science, and innovations shaping the cannabis industry. From exclusive interviews with industry leaders to deep dives on the latest tech, they cover it all.
Go to cannatechtoday.com to subscribe to their digital and print editions and gain access to exclusive interviews, brand-new technology, and thought-provoking articles from every corner of the cannabis community.
Additional Resources
- Pre-Register for CannMed 26 for just $100
- CannMed Video Archive
- Connect with Mark on LinkedIn
- The Dark Side of Cannabidiol (CBD): The Unanticipated Social and Clinical Implications of Synthetic Δ8-THC
- Hash Church on YouTube
- CANN Delta-8-THC Panel Discussion
- GC Separation for Identification of iso-THC Contaminants and Accurate Quantification of Δ8 -THC and Δ9-THC in Cannabis Samples
Another CannMed Summit is in the books. To all of you who joined us in Puerto Rico this year, thank you for making it our best event yet!
This year’s summit brought together clinicians, regulators, researchers, cultivators, patients, and entrepreneurs from more than a dozen countries. The enthusiasm and passion that they brought to the sessions and the networking events created an amazing environment for creating lasting connections. We can’t wait to see how those connections shape the future of the industry.
If you weren’t able to join us this year, don’t worry, you can experience at least part of the CannMed magic when we post video recordings of all the panels and oral presentations on our YouTube page and the CannMed Archive. Those will be posted in the next 30-45 days. Be sure to sign up for email alerts to receive an email when they are live.
We are already looking forward to CannMed 26 and will hopefully have details to share very soon. 2026 is the 10 year anniversary of our very first event, so we are working on some special ways to celebrate.
That’s it for now. No interview today. We are still resetting following the event, but we should be back with a new episode for July 9th.
Dr. Shiksha Gallow currently serves as the Medical Director of the Holistic Integrative Healing Institute and is notably the first and only South African to sit on the Board of Directors of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians. Dr. Gallow’s passion lies in leveraging her medical and scientific expertise to develop Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) from cannabis and other plant species to treat various conditions. She has achieved significant success in treating patients with autoimmune diseases and cancer, and she strongly advocates for patient access to safe and effective medicines that improve quality of life.
At CannMed 25 she will present “Comprehensive Evaluation of the ‘Impact of Cannabinoids’ on Prostate Cancer: Integrating PSA, PET/CT Scans and Patient-Related Outcomes”
During our conversation we discuss
- The variety of treatment options for prostate cancer and the role of cannabinoids may play
- Results from an empirical study that evaluated how cannabinoid treamtment impacts PSA levels PET/CT scans and patient reported outcomes
- How patients were selected and grouped for the study
- Future research opportunities
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: PRICH Biotech
PRICH Biotech, Corp. is a vertically integrated company dedicated to the cultivation, manufacture and dispensing of medicinal Cannabis in Puerto Rico.
With over 500,000 square feet of STATE OF THE ART facilities, Prich uses the highest standards of agricultural and manufacturing practices to Guarantee the highest standard of medicinal cannabis. Their mission is to offer a natural and unique experience through medicinal cannabis that raises the patient’s well-being and quality of life.
Learn more at prichbiotech.com.
Additional Resources
- Dr. Gallow on Linkedin
- Holistic Healing Dr Gallow (Facebook)
- CannMed Video Archives
Morgan Keefer is the Senior Accreditation Officer at A2LA where she works with and assesses cannabis testing laboratories across the United States.
Since joining A2LA, Morgan has presented about Laboratory Shopping, Proficiency Testing, and Microbial Testing in the cannabis industry at Cannabis Science Conference, A2LA’s Annual Conference and PITTCON. At CannMed 25 she will present “Accredited Methods in Cannabis Testing” which will explore many of the challenges facing cannabis testing labs.
During our conversation we discuss:
- The variation of cannabis testing regulations across the U.S., and how that creates challenges for multi-state labs and manufacturers.
- The lack of established testing standards, which leads to inconsistent results across the industry
- The role organizations like AOAC and USP play in creating standard methods
- How inconsistent testing results affect consumer safety
- The lack of testing requirements for consumable hemp products
Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: McKinney RSA
McKinney is made up of regulatory science veterans who apply lessons learned in the nicotine space to help cannabis manufacturers better understand the toxicological and societal implications of their product. They do that by Identifying base compounds, extracts, flavors and terpenes, understanding how they interact, and ensuring effectiveness for the intended use. They also provide dosing recommendations and establish guidelines for product consistency.
Learn more at mckinneyrsa.com
Additional Resources
- NIHC Verify program
- A2LA-NIHC Verify Hemp/Cannabis Recognition Program
- A2LA Domestic Recognitions
- A2LA Public Documents
- Register for CannMed 25
- Meet the CannMed 25 Speakers and Poster Presenters
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Dustin Sulak is a traditional osteopathic physician and expert in integrative medicine. His clinical practice in Maine focuses on treating refractory conditions in adults and children. Dr. Sulak is an internationally-renowned expert in medical cannabis, the author of Handbook of Cannabis for Clinicians: Principles and Practice, and co-founder of Healer, a medical cannabis education resource and products company. He serves on the board of directors of The Society of Cannabis Clinicians and is a passionate educator and leader in the medical cannabis field.
Dustin is also a true CannMed veteran, having participated in every CannMed event dating back to our first conference at Harvard Medical School. He returns to CannMed 25 this year and is contributing to multiple sessions, including:
- The Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Panel
- CannMed Medical Practicum
- Bridging the Gap: New Findings on the Utility of CBG-Dominant and THC-Containing Hemp Products
- Morning Mindfulness Session
We discuss:
- Overview of Dustin’s oral presentation on CBG and its clinical use in cannabinoid medicine
- Current research, anecdotal evidence, and mechanisms of CBG’s therapeutic effects
- Insights from a patient survey studying CBG and THC usage patterns, dosages, and outcomes
- How the 2018 Farm Bill increased patients’ access to THC-containing products
- Using cannabinoids, especially low-dose THC and CBG, to manage dementia symptoms.
- Survey data on using ketamine to treat depression and pain
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Healer
Healer is a trusted, physician-developed medical cannabis brand founded to address the challenges of helping patients and health providers get the best results with safe, reliably dosable products and education on how to best use them. Healer’s distinctive product formulations and educational material are based on the work of leading cannabis clinician, Dr. Dustin Sulak, D.O.
Learn More at healer.com
Additional Resources
- Healer.com
- HealerCBD.com
- Register for CannMed 25
- Meet the CannMed 25 Speakers and Poster Presenters – –
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Zamir Punja, PhD is a Professor of Plant Biotechnology at Simon Fraser University in Canada. His research interests include the etiology and management of plant diseases on vegetable and horticultural crops, and the applications of plant biotechnology for disease management. Since 2018, his work has shifted to researching cannabis, where his group has described a range of previously unreported pathogens affecting the crop and has evaluated various methods for disease management.
At CannMed 25, Zamir will present his team’s latest work investigating the microbiome of cannabis and hemp plants. Using Next-Generation Sequencing and microscopy, his team identified diverse fungi, yeasts, and bacteria across plant tissues. Their study reveals that cannabis plants host abundant microbial endophytes, which can impact plant health and product quality. Findings also highlight the influence of growing substrates and biocontrol agents on the cannabis microbiome.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- What is the microbiome and how do microbial endophytes affect plant health
- Identification of common microbes found in cannabis samples, including Penicillium and Fusarium
- Whether meristem tissue culture is a viable microbial sterilization method
- The influence of sterilized vs. non-sterilized growing media
- How growers can use microbiome analysis for early interventions
- Insights into beneficial fungi like Trichoderma and Mycorrhizae
- Future research questions on microbial balance and seed microbiome engineering
- And More
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: GrowDefender
GrowDefender provides long-lasting antimicrobial protection for indoor cultivation and processing spaces. Using patented Goldshield® technology, their EPA-registered, water-based products protect surfaces from mold, mildew, bacteria, and fungi for up to 90 days. Safe, non-toxic, and easy to apply, GrowDefender helps growers reduce contamination, protect crops, and maintain cleaner, healthier environments. Learn more at growdefender.com
Additional Resources
- Endophytes in Cannabis sativa: Identifying and Characterizing Microbes with Beneficial and Detrimental Effects on Plant Health – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12030312/
- Exploring the fascinating development of cannabinoid-producing trichomes – https://youtu.be/Avhr8XjsBTU?si=nbYpjuoMMnKVqF6X
- Register for CannMed 25 – https://cvent.me/emBPno
- Meet the CannMed 25 Speakers and Poster Presenters – https://cannmedevents.com/speakers/ –
- Review the Podcast – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cannmed-coffee-talk/id1504218804
- CannMed Archive – https://cannmedevents.com/cannmed-video-archives/
Dr. Dedi Meiri is an Associate Professor at the Technion Institute where he heads the Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Cannabinoid Research.
The lab investigates the vast therapeutic potential of secondary metabolites from cannabis and other herbs, algae, and psychedelic mushrooms; and reveals how these naturally occurring metabolites affect various types of cancer, inflammatory diseases, and disorders of the nervous system
Dr. Meiri is also highly involved in governmental regulations and is a residing member in several Israeli Ministry of Health committees that seek to advance the fundamental understanding of optimal cannabis and other psychedelic plant usage and curtailing adverse effects.
At CannMed 25, Dedi will present “Cannabis as a Therapy Across Diverse Cancer Types: Milestones and Insights from a Decade of Research“, which will discuss his lab’s work investigating whether Cannabis can serve as a primary pharmaceutical treatment for cancer.
We discuss:
- The wide range of clinical applications for cannabis medicine, including cancer, epilepsy, sleep disorders, Alzheimer’s, and women’s health issues like endometriosis.
- How cannabis’ entourage effect challenges the traditional one-drug-one-target model.
- How many powerful cannabinoids are overlooked by standard lab testing methods—even though they exist in significant quantities and show therapeutic potential.
- Israel’s Medical Cannabis Model, which treats cannabis like a pharmaceutical, with prescriptions, clinical oversight, and growing physician acceptance.
- The goal is to provide evidence-based, accurate treatments that tailor cannabis therapies to specific health conditions and individual needs.
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Trusted Canna Nurse
Trusted Canna Nurse was founded by Megan Mbengue and Ariane Williams, two nurses who are dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional medicine and the world of cannabis and psychedelics. They specialize in creating evidence-based treatment plans for all ages that address chronic illnesses, treatment-resistant conditions, mental health, autism, and more.
Learn more at trustedcannanurse.com
Additional Resources
- Dedi Meiri Publications on Google Scholar
- Dedi Meiri on Linkedin
- Register for CannMed 25
- Meet the CannMed 25 Speakers and Poster Presenters
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Michael Petersen has over 38 years of experience as a researcher and mentor in both the private and public plant biotech space. He has over 50 issued patents and his work in plant transformation and gene expression is a passion. Mike has worked on many genetic engineering/editing contracts with entities across the globe, and he now focuses on innovative hemp research. At CannMed 25, Mike will share his team’s latest efforts to transform cannabis and hemp plants using gene editing and genetic engineering in a presentation titled, “Creation of Novel Traits Through Genetic Engineering and Editing of Cannabinoid, Terpene, and Flavonoid Pathways in Cannabis sativa” During the conversation, we discussed: The difference between gene editing and genetic engineering How gene editing and genetic engineering methods have changed over the years Potential applications of gene editing and genetic engineering in cannabis and hemp Benefits and challenges versus traditional breeding The Wisconsin Crop Innovation Center’s gene editing service, which is available to researchers and cultivators Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Kannapedia.net Kanapedia.net is the world’s most comprehensive cannabis genomic library, featuring more than 2,200 genomic reports on cannabis and hemp varieties from around the globe. Kannapedia.net reports are easily searchable and contain Visualizations and Variant Tables that highlight high-impact variants in genes of interest. For example, you can see a report for the Badger G variety that Mike Petersen’s team edited to break the CBDA synthase gene. In fact, you can see the drop out in the CBDA coverage chart on that report. . Visit Kannapedia.net to learn more. Additional Resources Wisconsin Crop Innovation CenterEmail Mike Michael Petersen on Linkedin Register for CannMed 25Meet the CannMed 25 Speakers and Poster PresentersReview the Podcast CannMed Archive
Israel Gasperin is a visionary entrepreneur, engineering scientist and the founder of Zentrela, a company dedicated to transforming cannabis research through advanced neurotechnology and AI. Under Israel’s leadership, Zentrela developed the Psychoactive Effect Level (PEL) metric, an innovative EEG-based measure capable of objectively assessing cannabis products' psychoactive potency. By combining wearable EEG technology with AI-driven EEG analysis, the PEL metric provides cannabis producers, researchers, and regulators with a non-invasive and cost-effective way to quantify product effects and maintain quality control. At CannMed 25, Israel will share results from over 10,000 EEG scans of consumers using a wide range of cannabis products in his oral presentation titled “Cannabis Effect Research Driven by EEG Technology and Machine Learning”.During our conversation, we discuss: How Zentrela’s wearable EEG technology got its start measuring drowsiness in truck drivers The unreliability of consumer feedback with regards to cannabis product effects How the PEL metric was created to measure the unique psychoactive effects of cannabisHow producers can use PEL to objectively measure the quality and effectiveness of cannabis products beyond cannabinoid percentages Research findings that show THC% and PEL% are not directly correlated and more Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: The DENT InstituteWith more than 300,000 patient visits per year, the DENT Neurologic Institute ranks among the largest neuroscience centers in North America. Its 24 subspecialty clinics often treat the most challenging neurologic conditions including but not limited to Migraine, Chronic pain, ALS, MS, Parkinson’s, Dementia, and Neuro-Oncology. With their mission of advancing neuroscience, the Dent Institute established a cannabis clinic in 2016 to aid in the treatment of these chronic conditions seen throughout the institute.Learn more at dentinstitute.comAdditional ResourcesZentrela WebsiteIsrael Gasperin on LinkedInUse of a Novel EEG-Based Objective Test, the Cognalyzer®, in Quantifying the Strength and Determining the Action Time of Cannabis Psychoactive Effects and Factors that May Influence Them Within an Observational Study FrameworkSensitivity, Specificity and Accuracy of a Novel EEG-Based Objective Test, the Cognalyzer®, in Detecting Cannabis Psychoactive EffectsRegister for CannMed 25Meet the CannMed 25 Speakers and Poster PresentersReview the PodcastCannMed Archive
Shawna Vreeke, PhD is Head of Research at True Terpenes, where she is instrumental in developing and maintaining the rigorous safety and quality protocols the brand is known for. Shawna is an active advocate for science-based safety parameters to protect consumer health and has worked with policymakers to implement sensible regulations to protect public health and maintain access to regulated cannabis products. She has multiple peer-reviewed papers on vape safety, and most recently, her work has been adopted into two ASTM global standards.At CannMed 25 Shawna will present Toxicological Risk in Cannabis Vapes: Exogenous Additives and Their Implications for Consumer Safety. It will highlight specific higher-risk ingredients and identify how prevalent they are in vaporization products currently in the cannabis market. During our conversation we discussed: The main components of cannabis vape products How and why exogenous ingredients are added to vape productsHow toxicological risks are evaluated based on hazard and exposure level Why one can’t assume that safe food ingredients are also safe for inhalation Why risk-assessment based regulations are a better approach to outright bans on flavorsand more Additional ResourcesTrue Terpenes websiteConnect with ShawnaRegister for CannMed 25Meet the CannMed 25 Speakers and Poster PresentersReview the PodcastCannMed Archive
Dr. Staci Gruber is the Director of the Cognitive and Clinical Neuroimaging Core at McLean Hospital’s Brain Imaging Center and an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Gruber launched Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) in 2014, the first ever program of its kind designed to clarify the long-term impact of medical cannabis use. MIND supports numerous projects that aim to address the impact of medical cannabis on a number of important variables including cognition, brain structure and function, clinical state, quality of life, pain, sleep, and other health-related measures. As director of MIND, Dr. Gruber has generated major contributions to the field as the first to assess medical cannabis patients longitudinally, first to acquire neuroimaging data in medical cannabis patients, and as Principal Investigator of the first clinical trial of a full-spectrum, high-cannabidiol (CBD) product, which she specifically formulated to treat anxiety. Additional, novel clinical trials have been approved and are pending or currently underway. At CannMed 25 Staci will share findings from those clinical trials as an oral presenter. https://cannmedevents.com/staci-gruber-phd/ Topics Discussed: Key findings from the MIND Program’s longitudinal studies on medical cannabis use (improved cognitive performance and reductions in pain, anxiety, and sleep disturbances) Ongoing clinical trials the MIND Program is conducting on anxiety, bipolar disorder, and Alzheimer’sThe Women’s Health Initiative at MIND (WHIM) investigating cannabis for gynecologic pain, menopause, and endometriosis Concerns about mislabeled cannabis products and unregulated hemp-derived products and more! Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Healer Healer is a trusted, physician-developed medicinal cannabis brand founded to address the challenges of helping people and health providers get the best results with safe, reliably dosable products and education on how to best use them. Healer Hemp products are available nationwide and include a step-by-step usage guide and response tracker. Healer’s distinctive product formulations and education are based on the latest research and work of leading cannabis clinician, Dr. Dustin Sulak, D.O. Visit Healer.com or HealerCbd.com Additional Resources https://www.drstacigruber.comSocial Media: @DrStaciGruber on X and Instagram Register for CannMed 25 Meet the CannMed 25 SpeakersReview the PodcastCannMed Archive
Dr. Punya Nachappa is an Associate professor at Colorado State University in the Department of Agricultural Biology. Her research program focuses on understanding the interactions between plants and insect vectors to manage plant pests and diseases in hemp. At CannMed 25, Punya will present "Biology and Management of Hop Latent Viroid", which will describe the impact of HLVd on hemp yield and cannabinoids, explain how thrips and aphids transmit the viroid, and evaluate the efficacy of using chemical elicitors to control HLVd infections. During our conversation, we discussed: How Hop Latent Viroid has been reported in every hemp-growing state in the US and Canada How HLVd spreads through infected clones, mechanical contact, seeds, and insect vectors like aphids and thrips. Possible reasons why hemp varieties appear more resistant than cannabis varieties (i.e., genetic diversity and environmental factors) The tradeoffs associated with using chemical elicitors on infected plants: increased yield, but reduced cannabinoids. Strategies for preventing HLVD spread, including strict sanitation, insect monitoring, frequent testing, and breeding for genetic resistance. Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients. Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries. Learn more at AdvancedNutrients.com Additional Resources - Nachappa Lab Website (https://www.nachappalab.com/) - Register for CannMed 25 (https://cvent.me/emBPno) - Meet the CannMed 25 Speakers (https://cannmedevents.com/speakers/) - Review the Podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cannmed-coffee-talk/id1504218804) - CannMed Archive (https://cannmedevents.com/cannmed-video-archives/)
Dr. Michelle Peace is an internationally recognized forensic toxicologist and a Full Professor in the Department of Forensic Science at Virginia Commonwealth University. The National Institute of Justice has funded her team to study the proliferation of semi-synthetic THC analogs in the unregulated market and define their relevant biomarkers. Her work impacts public health and public safety policies and initiatives.At CannMed 25 Michelle will present “Why Some People “Green Out”? The Analysis of Unregulated “Hemp-derived” Cannabis Products”. Her team used a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method to analyze unregulated hemp products. All the products they analyzed were mislabeled in some way, either misrepresenting the cannabinoids contained therein or their concentrations. During our conversation we discussWhat has caused the rise of semi-synthetic cannabinoids in the market? How Michelle got involved testing unregulated hemp and cannabis products Some of the adverse events that have occured from consuming semi-synthetic cannabinoids How the LS-MS/MS method allows Michelle’s team to see compounds other labs can’t How consumers can protect themselves from mislabeled productsWhether federal legalization of cannabis would eliminate the semi-synthetic market Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: PRICH BiotechPRICH Biotech, Corp. is a vertically integrated company dedicated to the cultivation, manufacture and dispensing of medicinal Cannabis in Puerto Rico. With over 500,000 square feet of state-of-the-art facilities, Prich uses the highest standards of agricultural and manufacturing practices to guarantee the highest standard of medicinal cannabis. Their mission is to offer a natural and unique experience through medicinal cannabis that raises the patient's well-being and quality of life.Learn more at prichbiotech.com. Additional ResourcesRegister for CannMed 25Meet the CannMed 25 SpeakersReview the PodcastCannMed Archive
Dr. Nicole Gauthier is a Professor and Extension specialist at the University of Kentucky. Her program focuses on disease management of specialty crops including fruits, vegetables, and hemp. In her Extension role, she develops educational and outreach programs to help growers manage disease through identification, understanding of pathosystems, and integration of management strategies. Her research program focuses on a range of hemp diseases, including Fusarium head blight, as well as stand establishment and seedborne transmission. Dr. Gauthier’s resources can be found at plantpathology.ca.uky.edu/extension/publications, on Facebook and Twitter at @KYPlantDisease, and on YouTube at @NicoleGauthier. Nicole’s team at the University of Kentucky recently published a fact sheet about Fusarium head blight in hemp plants, which caught my eye considering many of the cultivators we work with at Medicinal Genomics struggle with that pathogen. During our conversation, we discuss: The financial impact of fusarium on Hemp and cannabis crops The public health concerns due to Fusarium’s production of harmful mycotoxins How growers often misidentify Fusarium head blight as Botrytis due to similar symptoms, leading to ineffective management strategies. Environmental conditions that increase the likelihood of a Fusarium infection Challenges for prevention and management, including a lack of effective fungicides and resistant cultivars Future Research to understand Fusarium spread, genetic resistance, and management techniques Thanks to this episode’s Sponsor: Rare Earth Genomics. Rare Earth Genomics is a dynamic partnership formed with Texas A&M AgriLife, one of the world’s leading research institutions, to accelerate hemp research and create tools for farmers. Their mission is to increase the likelihood of a successful harvest for farmers through genetic analysis and rigorous environmental testing of vigorous cultivars. Learn more at rareearchgenomics.com Additional Resources UK Plant Pathology resources and publicationsUSDA hemp multistate group (S1084) resources page UK hemp website Register for CannMed 25 Meet the CannMed 25 Advisory Board Review the Podcast CannMed Archive
Ed Leclere and David McKillop have teamed up to create High Science, a new TV series premiering on YouTube TODAY November 27th featuring Medicinal Genomics and CannMed. David is an Emmy-award-winning producer with an impressive background in creating hit shows like Duck Dynasty and Pawn Stars. He brings his storytelling expertise to the cannabis space, teaming up with Ed Leclere to launch a show that’s as entertaining as it is informative. High Science promises to take viewers on a journey through the world of cannabis, focusing on its therapeutic potential, the people who grow it, and the science that drives it forward. During our conversation, we discuss: Ed’s personal health journey and how it inspired the show's creation The show’s goal to make the medical science of cannabis more accessible to the public and reduce cannabis stigma. The challenges that cannabis entrepreneurs face in the form of strict regulations, financial challenges, and a thriving black market. How the series uses personal storytelling to balance education and entertainment. Why YouTube was chosen for its global reach and creative freedom compared to traditional networks. A glimpse into future seasons which may explore other plant medicines, such as mushrooms. Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: High Science TV High Science TV shares the lively exploits of colorful characters around the world, trailblazing all things cannabis in pursuit of the modern-day gold rush. Father/son show hosts Rich Batenburg Jr. and Richard “Rick” Batenburg III explore legendary seed gurus, relentless cultivators, expansive growers, pioneering product makers and imaginative dispensary owners as they break the barriers of this new frontier. The storytelling unmasks the mystical powers of the ancient cannabis plant and its innumerable uses through dynamic entertainment. High Science premieres on YouTube November 27th at YouTube.com/@HighScienceTV. Additional Resources Watch High Science HighScience.com Register for CannMed 25 Meet the CannMed 25 Advisory BoardReview the PodcastCannMed Archive
Kevelin Barbosa-Xavier is a PhD student in Plant Biotechnology at Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF) where she conducts research under the supervision of Thiago Motta Venancio. She is a computational biologist, investigating the genes and gene networks involved in plant secondary metabolic pathways and fiber production, specifically in the Cannabis sativa species.
Kevelin and her team recently published a study titled Cannabis Expression Atlas: a comprehensive resource for integrative analysis of Cannabis sativa L. gene expression, along with a free online tool to help researchers analyze genomic sequence data.
We discussed:
- The team’s main objectives in creating the Cannabis Expression Atlas
- How our understanding of cannabis genomics compares to other commercial crops
- How gene expression data can advance plant breeding and genetic engineering
- Potential applications of the Cannabis Expression Atlas in commercial cannabis cultivation
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Medicinal Genomics
Medicinal Genomics (MGC) uses its unmatched knowledge of the cannabis genome and the microbes affecting cannabis plants to create diverse testing solutions that improve crop yield, accelerate breeding programs, and ensure product safety. Growers and breeders use MGC’s cannabis genome sequencing services to identify novel traits, stabilize genetics, and protect intellectual property. Additionally, Kannapedia.net provides bioinformatics and blockchain certification for cultivar authenticity.
Learn more at medicinalgenomics.com
Additional Resources
- Cannabis Expression Atlas: a comprehensive resource for integrative analysis of Cannabis sativa L. gene expression
- Cannabis Expression Atlas
- Register for CannMed 25
- Meet the CannMed 25 Advisory Board
- Submit Your Abstract for CannMed 25
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Laura Barrett, MBA, BSN, RN, known as “Nurse Laura,” is the Founder and Executive Director of the National Clinical Director Consortium and the Owner and Operator of Ask Nurse Laura. She serves on the boards of several non-profits, including the Connor Sheffield Foundation. Nurse Laura is dedicated to educating individuals and groups about cannabis and psychedelic medicine options, whether in small settings or large conference auditoriums.
Additionally, she is part of the teaching faculty at the University of Maryland’s School of Pharmacy and New York University’s Business School where she teaches multiple courses – including the collaborative development of a psychedelic elective course for the Masters of Cannabis Science and Therapeutics program. She also conducts training sessions with healthcare provider groups and nursing organizations, delving into state-specific regulations, products, and access for providers. Collaborating closely with pharmacists, providers, and fellow nurses in the cannabis industry, Nurse Laura promotes valuable educational resources for healthcare professionals, patients, and dispensary staff. Her mission is to enhance consistency and reliability in the educational opportunities available, specifically in healthcare.
Nurse Laura has hands-on experience in various aspects of the cannabis industry, including cultivation, processing, dispensary operations, sales, marketing, and compliance. She emphasizes the importance of understanding laws and regulations, reviewing scientific research, and gathering patient data to create accessible presentations that support public health. Her balanced approach to cannabis and hemp integrates them into a holistic view of wellness.
Nurse Laura stays informed about current research on the medicinal use of cannabis and psychedelics to help patients and her peers assess the benefits and risks unique to everyone. She crafts tailored care plans incorporating well-established practices that she and her industry peers aim to standardize. Beloved by her patients for their improved health and respected by fellow practitioners for her perseverance and dedication, Nurse Laura is committed to advancing the evolving field of plant medicine therapeutics.
Laura is currently working with the Connor Sheffield Foundation on an observational research study about the use of cannabis to treat symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
During our conversation we discuss:
- How cannabinoids affect trauma responses and support cognitive therapy
- Details about the research study, including who should participate and how data will be collected
- How patients use different routes of administration, cannabinoid ratios, and dosages to manage certain symptoms
- The challenges of doing cannabinoid research and the need for standartization across the US
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: McKinney RSA
McKinney is made up of regulatory science veterans who apply lessons learned in the nicotine space to help cannabis manufacturers better understand the toxicological and societal implications of their product. They do that by Identifying base compounds, extracts, flavors and terpenes, understanding how they interact, and ensuring effectiveness for the intended use. They also provide dosing recommendations and establish guidelines for product consistency.
Learn more at mckinneyrsa.com
Additional Resources
- Connor Sheffield Foundation PTSD Research Study Link
- AskNurseLuara.com
- National Clinical Director Consortium
- Cannabinoid modulation of brain activation during volitional regulation of negative affect in trauma-exposed adults
- Register for CannMed 25
- Meet the CannMed 25 Advisory Board
- Submit Your Abstract for CannMed 25
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
With a BSc. in molecular biology and an MSc. in physiology, Liz has studied the human body through many lenses. The focus of her PhD program (Pharmacy) is to explore disorders that have directly impacted her life in the world of professional contact sports, and how cannabinoid products could potentially play a role in these.
As a member of the clinical trial team that was recently awarded funding from the NFL to study cannabinoids in concussion and pain, she is excited to bring new data to the literature exploring cannabinoids and athletics. Liz and her team recently published an extensive literature review titled Cannabinoid Therapy in Athletics: A Review of Current Cannabis Research to Evaluate Potential Real‑World Cannabinoid Applications In Sport, which establishes a foundation for their future research.
During our conversation, we discussed:
- How Liz became interested in the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids
- Published literature that supports using cannabinoids for neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative disorders
- Her team’s collaboration with the NFL and ongoing clinical trials focused on neuroinflammation and recovery in athletes, particularly after concussions
- Current use of cannabis in athletics and how sports organizations are changing their policies
- Future directions of research
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: The DENT Institute
With more than 300,000 patient visits per year, the DENT Neurologic Institute ranks among the largest neuroscience centers in North America. Its 24 subspecialty clinics often treat the most challenging neurologic conditions including but not limited to Migraine, Chronic pain, ALS, MS, Parkinson’s, Dementia, and Neuro-Oncology. With their mission of advancing neuroscience, the Dent Institute established a cannabis clinic in 2016 to aid in the treatment of these chronic conditions seen throughout the institute.
Learn more at dentinstitute.com
Additional Resources
- Cannabinoid Therapy in Athletics: A Review of Current Cannabis Research to Evaluate Potential Real‑World Cannabinoid Applications In Sport
- trainwithmaryjane.com
- Train with Mary Jane on Instagram
- Submit Your Abstract for CannMed 25
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Megan Mbengue is the revolutionary force behind Trusted Canna Nurse. With over 10 years of nursing experience in diverse fields like oncology, labor delivery, and hospice care, she brings a unique perspective to her practice. She also holds national certifications in three nursing specialties and a Master of Science degree in Medical Cannabis Therapeutics.
CodiPeterson is the Chief Science Officer at The Cannigma and a practicing pharmacist with a passion for cannabis-based medicine. Given his diverse pediatric pharmacy experience and knack for educating, he aims to educate as many as possible about the medicinal potential of cannabis
Codi and Megan have launched a new IRB-approved survey through the University of California that aims to better understand the signs, symptoms, and challenges of CHS. They want to understand the key indicators of this condition, hear about any remedies that work, and learn more about navigating healthcare as a CHS patient.
If you or someone you know has suffered from CHS (and are over 18), please take a moment to fill out their survey. Not only will you be helping this vital research, but participants will be entered into a drawing to win one of three $100 gift cards. I’ve put a link in the show description so it’s easy to find.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- Overview of CHS symptoms
- Early Symptoms and the Prodrome Phase
- Clinical experiences treating CHS patients
- The Potential Causes
- Challenges in diagnosing CHS
- Treatment and Abstinence from Cannabis
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Trusted Canna Nurse
Trusted Canna Nurse was founded by Megan Mbengue and Ariane Williams, two nurses who are dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional medicine and the world of cannabis and psychedelics. They specialize in creating evidence-based treatment plans for all ages that address chronic illnesses, treatment-resistant conditions, mental health, autism, and more.
Learn more at trustedcannanurse.com
Additional Resources
- Take the CHS Survey!
- Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome What You Need to Know [Video]
- what-is-chs.com
- Connect with Megan (Instagram, LinkedIn)
- Connect with Codi (Instagram, LinkedIn)
- Submit Your Abstract for CannMed 25
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Justin Esquivel is CEO & Geneticist, Green Luster Phenos™ and has been an influencer and leader in the cannabis industry for 15 years. Esquivel was the head grower and geneticist of an indoor commercial-scale cultivation operation back in 2012. Justin has consulted with over 100 cannabis facilities, 72 of which operate commercial canopies. Esquivel provides home growers with pest and bacteria-resistant genetics in seed and breeders’ cut form on a global scale! He brings standard operating procedures to a gold standard. His one-of-a-kind approach to plasticity breeding has sparked tons of interest across the globe. Esquivel also specializes in Cannabis Tissue Culture & Selective Homozygous Breeding, enabling his company to bring exotic tailored offspring to growers globally!
During our conversation, we discuss:
- Justin’s background in traditional ag and how that applies to cannabis
- How he uses tissue culture to store genetics and eliminate pathogens
- The process for creating stable cannabis varieties
- How purposely introducing pests into the breeding room helps select for resistance traits
- The application of analytical tools, such as PCR, HPLC, and marker-assisted breeding
Thanks to this episode’s Sponsor: Rare Earth Genomics.
Rare Earth Genomics is a dynamic partnership formed with Texas A&M AgriLife, one of the world’s leading research institutions, to accelerate hemp research and create tools for farmers. Their mission is to increase the likelihood of a successful harvest for farmers through genetic analysis and rigorous environmental testing of vigorous cultivars.
Learn more at rareearthgenomics.com
Additional Resources:
- greenlusterphenos.com
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Dr. John Streicher is a Professor in the Department of Pharmacology in the College of Medicine at the University of Arizona. He has built a long-term research program focused on finding improved treatments for pain. This has encompassed multiple approaches over the years, including testing cannabinoid and non-cannabinoid constituents of Cannabis sativa, identifying new ways to target opioid receptor signaling, and identifying new receptor targets in the body for pain relief. His lab works on both the basic science knowledge of how these systems work and also works to create new drugs for human therapy.
During our conversation, we discussed:
- The basics of terpenes. What they are and their role in cannabis
- The cannabimimetic effects of terpenes and their synergistic effects with cannabinoids
- What levels of terpenes are needed to get a therapeutic effect
- A recent study showing terpenes can relieve chronic neuropathic pain
- Combining terpenes with other drugs, such as opioids, to get better pain relief at lower doses
- Which terpenes provide the best pain relief
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Healer
Healer is a trusted, physician-developed medicinal cannabis brand founded to address the challenges of helping people and health providers get the best results with safe, reliably dosable products and education on how to best use them. Healer Hemp products are available nationwide and include a step-by-step usage guide and response tracker. Healer’s distinctive product formulations and education are based on the latest research and work of leading cannabis clinician, Dr. Dustin Sulak, D.O.
Visit Healer.com or HealerCbd.com
Additional Resources:
- Terpenes are Cannabimimetic and Enhance Cannabinoid Activity
- Terpenes Relieve Chronic Pain
- A Review Article of Terpenes in Pain
- A Screen of Minor Cannabinoids in Pain
- The University of Arizona Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Harold Han is Chief Science Officer and co-founder of Vertosa, and the pioneer in water compatible cannabinoid ingredients for infused products.
Harold designed the industrial leading cannabis emulsions that are widely applied in the cannabis beverage brands. Harold holds 16 patents in emulsion applications, and prior to founding Vertosa, he led a team that developed the emulsification oil for Bio Rad’s Digital Droplet PCR system.
Harold also publishes a regular series explaining the science of cannabis for product makers under the monicker “The Happy Chemist” — a nickname you’ll understand after you watch the interview.
One of his recent articles describes the different factors that contribute to cannabis beverage potency loss, which is a challenge for beverage brands. In fact, in regulated markets it’s common to see a 10-15% variation in potency compared to the label claim. In unregulated hemp-derived beverages, it can be even higher.
During the conversation we discuss
- The difference between cannabis beverages and alcoholic beverages
- What happens when cannabinoids oxidize
- How to put THC into water-based products using physical and chemical processes
- How every aspect of the supply chain can lead to potency loss in cannabis beverages
- Which beverage ingredients hasten potency loss
- How packaging conditions can affect scalping and oxidation rates
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Vertosa
Vertosa creates industry-leading active ingredients for infused product makers. Their patent-pending nano- and micro-emulsions are carefully designed for the specific needs of each customer, and their pre-suspended aqueous solutions empower them to create incredibly homogenous and stable products while maximizing bioavailability, clarity, and taste.
Learn more at Vertosa.com
Additional Resources
- Happy Chemist Article Series
- The Cannabis Beverage Manufacturing Handbook
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Deb Kimless has been in the medical cannabis field since 2013 where her diverse involvement spans many areas including cannabis cultivation, processing, formulation, testing, patient care, and conducting research. She consults within the industry as an advisor for companies who are interested in novel formulations specific to medical conditions, develops protocols, obtains IRB approval, conducts clinical trials, and helps to publish the results.
At CannMed 24, Deb presented a poster that shared data from an open-label clinical trial investigating using a cannabinoid-enhanced topical cream for alleviating Restless Leg Syndrome. RLS is condition that affects up to 10% of the US population, including Deb. She found relief using a CBDA-based topical cream and is working with the product manufacturer to conduct clinical trials that demonstrate its effectiveness.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- The symptoms of RLS and possible causes
- Deb’s own struggles with RLS
- Why many conventional and pharmaceutical treatments of RLS fall short
- Why CBDA appears to be effective at alleviating RLS symptoms
- Why a transdermal approach is better than ingesting or inhaling cannabinoids
- Results from the open label clinical trial including some remarkable success stories
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Trusted Canna Nurse
Trusted Canna Nurse was founded by Megan Mbengue and Ariane Williams, two nurses who are dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional medicine and the world of cannabis and psychedelics. They specialize in creating evidence-based treatment plans for all ages that address chronic illnesses, treatment-resistant conditions, mental health, autism, and more.
Learn more at trustedcannanurse.com
Additional Resources
- chylorelief.com – USE CODE “CANNMED20” for 20% OFF!
- Email Deb – dkimless@gmail.com
- Review the Podcast
- CannMed Archive
David Aronson is a cannabis educator who since 2018 has directly educated more than 5,000 health professionals nationwide on the medical applications of cannabis. He is on the faculty for PESI, one of the nation’s largest providers of professional continuing education, and he independently provides seminars for health professionals nationwide.
I learned during our conversation that David also has post-treatment Lyme disease, which is a condition that causes fatigue, neuropathic pain, brain fog, forgetfulness, and other chronic symptoms that he treats with cannabis. His experience made him curious whether others have found success using cannabis to treat persistent Lyme. He shared his findings at CannMed 24 as a poster presentation and with me in the conversation you are about to hear.
We covered:
- What is Lyme disease and how does one acquire it
- The different stages of Lyme disease
- Treatments that are available to treat chronic Lyme disease
- How David collected data for his study
- Which types of products are effective for chronic Lyme symptoms
- and more
Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: McKinney RSA
McKinney is made up of regulatory science veterans who apply lessons learned in the nicotine space to help cannabis manufacturers better understand the toxicological and societal implications of their product. They do that by Identifying base compounds, extracts, flavors and terpenes, understanding how they interact, and ensuring effectiveness for the intended use. They also provide dosing recommendations and establish guidelines for product consistency.
Learn more at mckinneyrsa.com
Additional Resources
- lymedisease.org
- ilads.org
- strainprint.ca
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
Zac has been involved in the cannabis industry since 2005. He has had experience with all kinds of growing environments. From outdoor plots in Northern California to warehouses throughout the United States, his journey has taken him to almost every corner of the country.
Zac worked at some of the most reputable supply companies and cultivations before landing his job at BioSafe Systems. He is the National Cannabis Specialist for the company, a position that did not exist before Zac was hired.
He has comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of cultivation but specializes in integrated pest management (IPM). He has even written the book “Clean Growing: Integrated Pest Management for Cannabis Growers: The Ultimate Guide to Clean Crops & Safe Cultivation Practices That Protect Growers & Consumers” that is available to growers on Amazon.
During our conversation we discuss:
- How Zac got involved with IPM
- What is IPM and why it’s important to cannabis growers
- How cannabis growers can implement IPM into their operations
- Common pests and pathogens that cannabis growers are battling
- Common mistakes cannabis growers make when it comes to IPM
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients
Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community, and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries.
Learn more at advancednutrients.com
Additional Resources
- Clean Growing: Integrated Pest Management for Cannabis Growers: The Ultimate Guide to Clean Crops & Safe Cultivation Practices That Protect Growers & Consumers
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
We will be back with new episodes of the CannMed Coffee Talk Podcast next month!
Please be patient as we recharge following the CannMed 24 Innovation and Investment Summit, and prepare for next year’s event!
Be sure to sign up for email alerts at CannMedEvents.com so you will receive notifications when we publish the CannMed 24 oral presentation videos and announce details for CannMed 25!
Dr. Shannon Smith received his PhD in molecular biosciences from Middle Tennessee State University. There his research focused on plant biotechnology, with work in Cannabis, Panax, and Vitis tissue culture and manipulation. This led to the development of new and unique technologies for the production of both plants and secondary metabolites. He later founded Greenway Lab, a plant biotech company that collaborates with agricultural partners to implement plant biotech solutions to botanical challenges facing the modern agricultural industry.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- How recent advances in plant tissue culture can address major problems faced by the Cannabis industry
- How rapid, reliable propagation of identical daughter plants can be achieved in tissue culture
- How long-term storage of explant tissues can be used to regenerate whole plants
- How developments in meristematic tissue culture protocols can eliminate viral contamination of plant tissues
- And more!
Additional Resources
- Greenwaylab.co
- dr.smith@gwlabtn.com
- Medical Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Tissue Culture: Present Status and Future Potential
- Cryopreservation of 13 Commercial Cannabis sativa Genotypes Using In Vitro Nodal Explants
- Initiation, growth and cryopreservation of plant cell suspension cultures
- ELIMINATION OF HOP LATENT VIROID FROM HOP PLANTS BY COLD TREATMENT AND MERISTEM TIP CULTURE
- Under siege: virus control in plant meristems and progeny
Tim Lefever is the Director of Discovery at Nalu Bio. He is an experienced Director with a demonstrated history of 20+ years of preclinical in vivo research and leading effective teams at organizations such as Canopy Growth and Research Triangle Institute. He has authored or co-authored numerous manuscripts and presented research findings at a variety of scientific conferences over the past 20 years.
At CannMed 24, Tim will present “Characterization of Less Studied Cannabis Phytochemicals” which investigates the pharmacological, physicochemical, and basic toxicological characteristics of cannabis phytochemicals. During our conversation, we discuss:
- How Tim and his team choose which phytochemicals to study
- What makes the varin cannabinoids particularly interesting
- The difference between chemically derived compounds vs plant-derived compounds
- Which phytochemicals show the most promise
- Modifying phytochemicals to improve their effectiveness
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Brains Bioceutical
Brains Bioceutical is a global leader in EU-GMP-certified production of naturally-sourced active pharmaceutical ingredients for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. With a unique suite of licences, Brains Bioceutical is one of the only natural plant-based phytochemical API manufacturers in commercial production today, and is involved in academic and clinical trials across the globe. Learn more at brainsbioceutical.com
Additional Resources
- nalubio.com
- Register for CannMed 24
- What Makes CannMed Unique and Why You Don’t Want to Miss It
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Kimberly Gwinn is a Professor of Entomology and Plant Pathology at the University of Tennessee. Her lab currently investigates natural products that are produced by plants and microbes and their uses as medicines and as bio-pesticides.
At CannMed 24 she will present Hemp Processing by-products as Biopesticides which describes her team’s work using terpene-rich industrial hemp by-products to control plant diseases and pests.
We discuss:
- Why terpenes are effective biopesticides
- Which pathogens and pests terepene-rich biopesticide can fight
- What are nanaemulsions and why they are important in this application
- How this technology can open up a new revenue stream for growers
- The regulatory lift for getting biopesticides approved
- and more
Thanks to this episode’s Sponsor: Rare Earth Genomics.
Rare Earth Genomics is a dynamic partnership formed with Texas A&M AgriLife, one of the world’s leading research institutions, to accelerate hemp research and create tools for farmers. Their mission is to increase the likelihood of a successful harvest for farmers through genetic analysis and rigorous environmental testing of vigorous cultivars.
learn more at rareearchgenomics.com
Additional Resources
- Register for CannMed 24
- What Makes CannMed Unique and Why You Don’t Want to Miss It
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
Megan Mbengue is the revolutionary force behind Trusted Canna Nurse. Recognizing a gap between elderly patients and cannabis, Megan sought to provide that demographic with the extra hand-holding and guidance they need to have the best possible experience. With over a decade of nursing experience in diverse fields like oncology, labor delivery, and hospice care, she brings a unique perspective to her practice.
At CannMed 24 Megan will be participating in a Cannabis Nursing Panel and presenting a poster titled “Microdosing Psilocybin for Cannabis Dependency: A Nurse Led Intervention”
During our conversation, we discuss:
- The important role nurses play in cannabis medicine
- How brands can tap into the expertise cannabis nurses have
- How psilocybin can be used to treat addictive behavior
- The results from Trusted Canna Nurses 6-week beta for using psilocybin to treat cannabis dependency
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Trusted Canna Nurse
Trusted Canna Nurse was founded by Megan Mbengue and Ariane Williams, two nurses who are dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional medicine and the world of cannabis and psychedelics. They specialize in creating evidence-based treatment plans for all ages that address chronic illnesses, treatment-resistant conditions, mental health, autism, and more.
Learn more at trustedcannanurse.com
Additional Resources
- Register for CannMed 24
- What Makes CannMed Unique and Why You Don’t Want to Miss It
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
TJ Martin is the VP of R&D at Abstrax, a company that specializes in the research, development, and production of botanically derived and cannabis-inspired terpenes.
TJ and his team recently published a paper that identified several non-terpenoid compounds that are responsible for the unique aromas associated with exotic cannabis varieties, including the berry, tropical, candy, and fruity notes found in Zkittlez and Gelato as well as the rich, intense, chemical scents found in GMO. This research opens up a new world of aromatic compounds and challenges the idea of classifying cultivars based on terpenes alone.
We discuss:
- How cannabis aroma affects consumer and patient experience
- The variety of aromas the cannabis plant can produce and how it compares to other plants
- Define exotic cannabis varieties and compare them to more prototypical cultivars
- Why terpenes alone do not tell the entire aroma story in exotic cannabis varieties
- How to communicate information about non-terpeninoid compounds to consumers and patients in a meaningful way
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Agilent Technologies
Whether you manufacture or test cannabis, you face the challenge of delivering high-quality products, increasing sample volume, and meeting emerging regulations. Agilent offers best-in-class cannabis and hemp analysis solutions featuring robust instruments, software, services, and consumables. Their team of experts can develop, implement, and optimize methods to get you up and running quickly.
Learn more at agilent.com
Additional Resources
- Minor, Nonterpenoid Volatile Compounds Drive the Aroma Differences of Exotic Cannabis
- Abstraxtech.com
- [Podcast] Discovering New Aromatic Compounds in Cannabis with TJ Martin
- Cannasulfur Compounds: A New Class of Secondary Metabolites Discovered in Cannabis
- Cannabis Aroma Predicts User Experience with Adie Rae, PhD
- The Nose Knows: Aroma, but Not THC Mediates the Subjective Effects of Smoked and Vaporized Cannabis Flower
- Register for CannMed 24
- What Makes CannMed Unique and Why You Don’t Want to Miss It
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Dustin Sulak is a traditional osteopathic physician and expert in integrative medicine. His clinical practice in Maine focuses on treating refractory conditions in adults and children. Dr. Sulak is an internationally-renowned expert in medical cannabis, the author of Handbook of Cannabis for Clinicians: Principles and Practice, and co-founder of Healer, a medical cannabis education resource and products company. He serves on the board of directors of The Society of Cannabis Clinicians and is a passionate educator and leader in the medical cannabis field.
Dustin is also a true CannMed veteran, having participated in every CannMed event dating back to our first conference at Harvard Medical School. He returns to CannMed 24 this year as one of the medical practicum instructors and an oral presenter, presenting “The Art and Science of Combining Cannabinoids for Treatment Success” *
We discuss:
- What attendees can expect from CannMed Medical Practicum
- The expansion of avialble cannabinoids and how Dustin evaluates new options
- Which Cannabinoid Dustin would choose if he could only use one to treat patients
- The difference between acidic and neutral forms of cannabinoids
- The process for combining cannabinoids
- Challenging old assumptions about the benefits of combining CBD and THC
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Healer
Healer is a trusted, physician-developed medical cannabis brand founded to address the challenges of helping patients and health providers get the best results with safe, reliably dosable products and education on how to best use them. Healer’s distinctive product formulations and educational material are based on the work of leading cannabis clinician, Dr. Dustin Sulak, D.O.
Learn More at healer.com
Additional Resources
- Healer.com
- Register for CannMed 24
- What Makes CannMed Unique and Why You Don’t Want to Miss It
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Ethan Russo is a board-certified neurologist, psychopharmacologist, and Founder/CEO of CReDO Science. He is an internationally recognized authority on cannabis medicine. He has authored/edited seven books and has published more than 60 peer-reviewed articles. He also holds director/advisor positions with several cannabis therapeutics companies, and he was instrumental in developing Sativex® for pain and MS, and Epidiolex® for intractable epilepsy while at GW Pharmaceuticals.
At CannMed 24, Ethan will present “Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS): Unraveling the Gordian Knot”. CHS is an enigmatic condition where some chronic, heavy users of THC develop a cyclic pattern of vomiting and nausea that is only relieved by hot bathing and topical capsaicin. Ethan and his coinvestigators surveyed more than 500 cannabis users, including 205 diagnosed CHS patients, and investigated genetic mutations in 28 CHS patients and 12 controls to identify behaviors and genetic markers that could indicate CHS risk.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- What is CHS and who does it affect
- Why cases of CHS appear to be on the rise
- Possible genetic markers that could indicate CHS susceptibility
- Steps cannabis users can take to prevent developing CHS
- Why some people in the cannabis community don’t believe CHS is a real thing
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Cannabis Nurses Network
Established in 2015, the Cannabis Nurses Network™ is a professional nursing and professional development organization for nurses around the globe. By educating nurses on the science behind the plant and providing a global nursing network, nurses are supported and empowered to implement their knowledge within their community.
Learn more at cannabisnursesnetwork.com
Additional Resources
- what-is-chs.com
- ethanrusso.org
- CReDO-science.com
- Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Survey and Genomic Investigation
- Unraveling the Mystery of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome – CannMed 2019 Panel
- Register for CannMed 24
- What Makes CannMed Unique and Why You Don’t Want to Miss It
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
Akeem Gardner is the Founder and CEO of Canurta. He is an innovative entrepreneur with over five years of experience in industrial hemp enterprises. He has a proven track record in leading high-performance teams that work across multi-channel platforms and strategically aligning profitability with sustainability and economic development in Ontario.
At CannMed 24 Akeem will present Effect of Cannflavins on Mitigating a Motor Neuron Disease.
During our conversation we discuss:
- The minor molecules found in cannabis that Canurta is investigating for therapeutics
- Canurta’s process for evaluating indications for cannflavins and polyphenols
- How the diverse molecules in cannabis make it a great therapeutic for multifactoral diseases like ALS
- The potential for cannflavins and polyphenols may be used as a anti-inflammatory nutraceutical
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: American Cannabis Nurses Association
ACNA is a national nursing organization whose mission is to advance excellence in cannabis nursing practice through advocacy, collaboration, education, research, and policy development. Founded in 2010, ACNA continues to work on providing its members with up-to-date cannabis information and resources to care for patients who use cannabis.
Join them today at cannabisnurses.org and be a part of the change.
Additional Resources
- Akeem on LinkedIn –
- Email Akeem at Akeem@Canurta.com
- Canurta Journal Page
- Register for CannMed 24
- What Makes CannMed Unique and Why You Don’t Want to Miss It
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
Kevin McKernan is the Chief Scientific Officer and Founder of Medicinal Genomics. Kevin has pioneered the genomics of cannabis and hemp to build a stronger scientific environment for the study of cannabis based therapeutics and blockchain technologies for tracking and verifying cannabis genetics.
At CannMed 24 he will present “Understanding the Prevalence and Risks Associated with Endotoxins on Cannabis Flower”, which will include novel research he did to measure the level of endotoxins in store-bought cannabis flower. Our conversation covers:
- What inspired Kevin to look into endotoxin levels on cannabis
- Which microbes produce endotoxins
- How endotoxins affect humans
- Whether remediation techniques mask endotoxin risks
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Agilent Technologies.
Whether you manufacture or test cannabis, you face the challenge of delivering high-quality products, increasing sample volume, and meeting emerging regulations. Agilent offers best-in-class cannabis and hemp analysis solutions featuring robust instruments, software, services, and consumables. Their team of experts can develop, implement, and optimize methods to get you up and running quickly.
Learn more at agilent.com
Additional Resources
- High levels of endotoxins in commercial cannabis flower [Pre-Print]
- Total Yeast and Mold – A Comparison Study – Jini Glaros [CannMed 23 Presentation]
- What Makes CannMed Unique and Why You Don’t Want to Miss It
- Register for CannMed 24
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
David Traylor is Senior Managing Director at Golden Eagle Partners, and organizer of the CannMed 24 Capital Markets Workshop.
After advising on various transactions in the life science sector, David took an interest in the cannabis sector and started advising cannabis companies before eventually re-foundeding Golden Eagle Partners in 2014 to focus on advising companies across the cannabis sector. Before Golden Eagle Partners, David served at leading investment banking firms including Pacific Growth Equities, Caris & Company, and Headwaters MB. During his banking tenures he has advised private and public biotechnology and medical device companies in various transactions including IPOs, public offerings, private offerings, mergers and acquisitions totaling over $500 million in value.
David and Golden Eagle Partners will host a Capital Markets Workshop at CannMed 24 which will explore a global perspective of the hurdles, issues, and concepts around funding cannabinoid and cannabis innovation.
During our conversation we discuss:
- What attendees can expect from the Capital Markets Workshop
- Redefining the cannabis nomenclature
- The likelihood the DEA will reschuelde cannabis this year
- Pharma’s growing interest in cannabis-derived compounds
- Challenges cannabis innovators face when raising capital
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Golden Eagle Partners
Golden Eagle Partners are transactional experts, specializing in mergers, acquisitions, reverse mergers, financings and incremental transactions such as licensing, joint ventures and co-development arrangements. Their combined experience in the early stages of the cannabis and life science sectors allows them to confidently close strategic and financing transactions that match the near- and long-term goals of their clients.
Learn more at goldeneaglepartners.com
Additional Resources
- Reclassifying Cannabis: What The HHS Recommendation Means For The Cannabis Market [Benzinga Podcast]
- David Traylor on LinkedIn
- Register for CannMed 24
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
Bonni Goldstein is one of the country’s most respected and experienced medical cannabis physicians, having treated thousands of patients with medical cannabis. She is the owner and medical director of Canna-Centers Wellness & Education. She is Clinical Advisor to Cannformatics, and she is the author of the book titled “Cannabis is Medicine: How Medical Cannabis and CBD Are Healing Everything from Anxiety to Chronic Pain”.
Bonni has participated in every CannMed event since we started in 2016, she is a perennial Advisory Board Member, and she will lead the CannMed Medical practicum again in 2024. During our conversation we talked about:
- What attendees can expect from CannMed Medical Practicum
- New research that she is excited about concerning THCA and CBDA
- Her method for customizing cannabinoid formulations for her patients
- The many barriers preventing patients from using cannabis
- How the cannabinoid medicine options have expanded over the last decade
- The difficulty of keeping up with the cannabis medicine literature
Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: The DENT Institute
With more than 300,000 patient visits per year, the DENT Neurologic Institute ranks among the largest neuroscience centers in North America. Its 24 subspecialty clinics often treat the most challenging neurologic conditions including but not limited to Migraine, Chronic pain, ALS, MS, Parkinson’s, Dementia, and Neuro-Oncology. With their mission of advancing neuroscience, the Dent Institute established a cannabis clinic in 2016 to aid in the treatment of these chronic conditions seen throughout the institute.
Learn more at dentinstitute.com
Additional Resources
- Cannabis is Medicine by Bonni Goldstein, MD [Book]
- @bonnigoldsteinmd on Instagram
- Bonni Goldstein, MD on LinkedIn
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Patricia DiCiano is a scientist with the Institute for Mental Health and Policy Research at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). She is also an assistant professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Toronto. Patricia has a multi-disciplinary background and her general research area is clinical trials and regulated studies into the safety of cannabis and other substances of abuse. Earlier this year, she co-authored a study that evaluated the utility of THC cutoff levels in blood and saliva for the detection of impaired driving.
During our conversation, we discussed:
- The different allowable limits for THC levels in drivers
- The relationship between THC levels and impaired driving
- The best fluid to test for THC impairment
- The additive effects of combining alcohol and cannabis on driving impairment
- The differences in how alcohol and cannabis affect driving performance
Thanks to this episode’s sponsor: Trusted Canna Nurse
Trusted Canna Nurse was founded by Megan Mbengue and Ariane Williams, two nurses who are dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional medicine and the world of cannabis and psychedelics. They specialize in creating evidence-based treatment plans for all ages that address chronic illnesses, treatment-resistant conditions, mental health, autism, and more.
Learn more at trustedcannanurse.com
Additional Resources
- The Utility of THC Cutoff Levels in Blood and Saliva for Detection of Impaired Driving
- Canadian Cannabis Survey
- The “Next Day” Effects of Cannabis Use: A Systematic Review
- Register for CannMed 24
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
Dr. Karla Gage is Assistant Professor of Weed Science and Plant Biology at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where she received her Ph.D. in Plant Biology with a focus in Weed Ecology in 2013. In short, Karla is a weed expert, but not in the weed you smoke, but rather the weeds you pull. Her research focuses on using Integrated Weed Management to control and suppress weeds in midwestern US rotational crops, including corn, soybean, wheat, sorghum, and now hemp. During our conversation we discussed: What negative effects weeds can have on hemp Which weed species are threatening to hemp Herbicides that are approved for hemp and the threat of herbicide resistance Integrated weed management strategies, such as, crop rotation, cover crops, and chaff lining, plastic coverings, and more How ferral hemp varieties may have traits to help breed more resistant hemp varieties Thanks to this Episode's Sponsor: Rare Earth GenomicsRare Earth Genomics Texas is a partnership formed to accelerate hemp research and produce critical tools for the farmer. REG’s mission is to increase likelihood of a successful harvest through genetic analysis and rigorous environmental testing of vigorous cultivars. Reliable datasets, analytic tools and stable germplasm are core to the program. Success of the farmer is the goal!Learn more at rareearthgenomics.com
Dr. Laszlo Mechtler is the Chief Medical Officer at the DENT Neurologic Institute, the largest outpatient neuroscience center in the United States. Dr. Mechtler is the Director of the DENT Cannabis Clinic, which has more than 15,000 patients certified through the NYS MMJ program and continues to grow each day. He has published some of the first major retrospective research trials on Medical Marijuana in Headaches and other neurologic disorders and lectures both nationally and internationally and is recognized as a leader in the fields of Neuroimaging, Headache Medicine, Neuro-Oncology, and Medical Cannabis. Dr. Mechtler is also a member for he CannMed 24 Advisory Board. During our conversation we discuss: How the DENT Institute is uniquely positioned to study medical cannabis for a variety of conditions Results from recent studies conducted at the DENT Cannabis ClinicThe challenges of studying cannabis medicine and how a proposed rescheduling could help The ongoing struggle to convince fellow clinicians and medical associations that medical cannabis is legitimate Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: The DENT InstituteWith more than 300,000 patient visits per year, the DENT Neurologic Institute ranks among the largest neuroscience centers in North America. Its 24 subspecialty clinics often treat the most challenging neurologic conditions including but not limited to Migraine, Chronic pain, ALS, MS, Parkinson’s, Dementia, and Neuro-Oncology. With their mission of advancing neuroscience, the Dent Institute established a cannabis clinic in 2016 to aid in the treatment of these chronic conditions seen throughout the institute.Learn more at dentinstitute.comAdditional Resources Register for CannMed 24 Submit an Abstract for CannMed 24 Review the Podcast! CannMed Archive CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
Bill Graham is the Founder of Microcline Tissue Culture, a company that provides tissue culture kits, consulting, and training to cannabis cultivators. With hands-on expertise, he retailed and distributed hydroponics supplies, sourced grow lights globally, created Biojuice nutrients, designed Phresh filter air quality systems, and simplified micropropagation cloning - creating the leading Microclone tissue culture kits in 2005. During our conversation we discussed: The basics of tissue culture Tissue culture as propagation alternative to cloning How mother plants can lead to pathogen infections and loss of vigor Combining tissue culture and qPCR to eliminate pathogens, such as hop latent viroid and more! Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Cambium Analytica Cambium Analytica, provides analytical, product development, and quality assurance services for the natural foods, botanical products, natural pharmaceutical, and dietary supplement industries. Cambium is a leading research organization that is focused on leveraging its expertise on drug discovery and method development, to be a research partner of choice for new innovative companies in the burgeoning botanical medicines space. Their focus on applying analytical techniques in combination with sensory, product development, and consumer research is driving advancement in natural product quality and innovation. Learn more at cambiumanalytica.com Additional Resources microclone.com Microclone on YouTube Register for CannMed 24 Submit an Abstract for CannMed 24 Review the Podcast! CannMed Archive CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
Some people in the cannabis industry are questioning whether it is appropriate or necessary to test inhaled cannabis products for pathogenic Aspergillus. Full disclosure, we at Medicinal Genomics sell qPCR testing kits designed to detect pathogenic Aspergillus on cannabis products. We have also published several resources on our website that describe the potential harms that can be caused by inhaling pathogenic Aspergillus spores and cite with more than 2 dozen Aspergilosis cases in cannabis users. We have also recommended that states that are considering cannabis testing regulations adopt pathogenic Aspergillus testing. Not because we sell Aspergillus tests, but because we want to protect patients. By almost any measure, cannabis is one of the most safe and effective medicines available. And in many cases, the potential harms that can come from using cannabis are not caused by the plant, but rather contaminants. And although cases are rare, The documented cases describing Aspergillosis deaths from contaminated cannabis vastly outnumber the published clinical risks for every other contaminant for which the cannabis industry tests. There are no documented deaths for cannabis-derived heavy metals, mycotoxins, pesticides or incorrect cannabinoid labeling. The same cannot be said So that is our position, but of course we acknowledge that we are biased, and we are not experts on pathogenic fungi; however, our guest today is. David W. Denning is a Professor of Infectious Diseases in Global Health at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom. He was the founding president, executive director, and CEO of Global Action For Fungal Infections, an organization dedicated to reducing the worldwide burden of fungal disease.In 2016, he became the director of the National Aspergillosis Centre in Manchester, which treats patients with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA), and led the committee that developed the first CPA guidelines. He chairs the editorial board of a website which focusses on aspergillus and he leads an organisation which provides education on fungal diseases. In short, Dr. Denning is the leading authority on all things Aspergillus, and we asked him many of the questions that have been debated on social media recently, including: Should cannabis be tested for pathogenic AspergillusShould there be an allowable limit for pathogenic Aspergillus?Is Apergillosis only a concern for immunocompromised patients? Are the number of Aspergillosis cases under reported? How difficult is Aspergillosis to diagnose and treat? How ubiquitous is Aspergillus in the air we breathe? and so much more. Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Modern Canna Modern Canna is regarded as Florida’s first medical cannabis laboratory and one of the most trusted third party testing providers in the United States. The company’s mission is to help set the standard for cannabis testing labs worldwide by providing the most accurate and efficient testing services, delivered with a sense of compassion, integrity, and moral obligation; and to attract and attain clients who value quality data that is verifiable, reproducible, and legally defensible. Modern Canna is the only Leafly Certified laboratory in the eastern United States and adheres to the industry’s strictest SOPs and quality control standards. Modern Canna offers a wide variety of testing, rapid turnaround times, and consulting services to Florida Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTC’s) and hemp businesses throughout the US.Learn more at moderncanna.com Additional ResourcesToo Many Mouldy Joints – Marijuana and Chronic Pulmonary AspergillosisThe Aspergillus websitehttps://en.fungaleducation.org/Submit an Abstract for CannMed 24 Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
Mitchell Westmoreland is a Ph.D. candidate working with Dr. Bruce Bugbee in the Crop Physiology Laboratory at Utah State University. His Ph.D. research focuses on whole-plant physiology and cultivation of medical Cannabis in controlled environments. He has published his research on photobiology and plant nutrition in high-impact peer-reviewed scientific journals. I spoke with Mitch about the various environmental factors that contribute to cannabis yield, specifically light, temperature, humidity, and CO2. Mitch does a great job explaining the energy cascade, which describes the underlying mechanisms that plants use to convert photons to energy and ultimately biomass. Mitch also explains how those factors can be manipulated to not only increase yield but also make better use of resources. Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients. Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community, and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries. Learn more at advancednutrients.com Additional Resources Elevated UV photon fluxes minimally affected cannabinoid concentration in a high-CBD cultivar Cannabis lighting: Decreasing blue photon fraction increases yield but efficacy is more important for cost-effective production of cannabinoids Sustainable Cannabis Nutrition: Elevated root-zone phosphorus significantly increases leachate P and does not improve yield or quality An approach to crop modeling with the energy cascade Exploring the Limits of Crop Productivity The Science and Technology of Medical Cannabis Cultivation Utah State University Course Review the Podcast!CannMed Archive CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
Danielle McCartney is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics at the University of Sydney. Her main role is to coordinate clinical research into the effects of cannabidiol on simulated car driving performance. Danielle and her colleagues recently published a systematic review of 20 studies that examine the next-day effects of THC. As the study states, “The length of time an individual should wait following cannabis use before performing safety-sensitive tasks, is a critical issue.” Some government agencies and experts recommend individuals avoid performing safety-sensitive tasks for at least 24 hours. It should not surprise you to learn that the data suggests a much shorter impairment window.During our conversation, we discuss:The different types of studies the authors reviewed and the criteria they used to evaluate themThe different tests administered to measure impairmentHow next-day effects of THC compare to acute effectsHow next-day effects are different in medicinal cannabis patients vs. recreational usersWhat methods are available to determine THC impairment in driversWhat is a reasonable impairment window for THCThank You to This Episode's Sponsor: Medicine Women HealthMedicine Women’s team of specialists includes Medical Doctors, Naturopaths, Medical Cannabis Experts, Nutritionists and Alternative Health Practitioners. These integrative teams evaluate health issues and design targeted protocols to promote personal healing. Medicine Women’s Protocols have successfully alleviated symptoms of Cancer, Auto-Immune Diseases and Neurological Conditions, as well as providing overall Health Rejuvenation.Learn more at www.medicinewomenhealth.com. Additional ResourcesThe “Next Day” Effects of Cannabis Use: A Systematic ReviewDetermining the magnitude and duration of acute Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC)-induced driving and cognitive impairment: A systematic and meta-analytic reviewLambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics Review the Podcast! CannMed Archive CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
The CannMed Coffee Talk is on a bit of a break. We will be back with a brand new episode on Wednesday, September 20th.
This hiatus will allow us to upgrade some of our equipment and processes so we can improve our production quality and give us more time between recording the podcast and getting the episodes published. You may have noticed that our last few episodes have included a video element, which adds a whole new layer of complexity to the production.
So hang tight, we already have some great guests lined up that I think you will all enjoy. But in the meantime, we invite you to check out any past episodes you may have missed. They are all available on the CannMed Coffee Talk Podcast page. And please also check out the video recordings of all the past CannMed presentations in the CannMed Video Archive.
Zamir Punja, PhD is a Professor of Plant Biotechnology at Simon Fraser University in Canada. His research interests include the etiology and management of plant diseases on vegetable and horticultural crops, and the applications of plant biotechnology for disease management. Since 2018, his work has shifted to researching cannabis, where his group has described a range of previously unreported pathogens affecting the crop and has evaluated various methods for disease management.
His team just published the results of a 3-year study that identified several factors related to growing, drying, and trimming cannabis that have a direct effect on Yeast and Mold levels. This is important because when growers fail for microbial testing, yeast and mold is most often the reason. So if you are a grower who has struggled with total yeast and mold, perhaps these findings can help you get back on track. I’ve put a link to the paper in the show description, and if you are watching on YouTube, I have added several figures and images from the paper throughout the conversation.
We covered:
The different species of yeast and mold that are commonly found on cannabis and which are potentially harmful to humans
The value of TYM testing as an indicator of product safety and quality
What is a reasonable threshold for Total Yeast and Mold
How Cannabis genotype affects TYM levels
Why leaf litter drives up TYM levels
Why hang drying is a better method than wet trimming
The drawbacks of irradiation
And more
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Agilent Technologies
Whether you manufacture or test cannabis, you face the challenge of delivering high-quality products, increasing sample volume, and meeting emerging regulations. Agilent offers best-in-class cannabis and hemp analysis solutions featuring robust instruments, software, services, and consumables. Their team of experts can develop, implement, and optimize methods to get you up and running quickly. Learn more at agilent.com
Additional Resources
Total yeast and mold levels in high THC-containing cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) inflorescences are influenced by genotype, environment, and pre-and post-harvest handling practices
5 Factors Causing Cannabis to Fail Total Yeast and Mold
Review the Podcast!
CannMed Archive
CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
VIDEO VERSION AVAILABLE ON YOUTUBE
Dr. Zamir Punja is a Professor of Plant Biotechnology at Simon Fraser University in Canada. His research interests include the etiology and management of plant diseases on vegetable and horticultural crops, and the applications of plant biotechnology for disease management. Since 2018, his work has shifted to researching cannabis, where his group has described a range of previously unreported pathogens affecting the crop and has evaluated various methods for disease management.
Zamir’s latest research has been focused on a pathogen that is spreading throughout cannabis cultivation facilities worldwide, Hop Latent Viroid. HLVd is a relatively new pathogen. It was first identified in hops in the late 80s and was detected in cannabis in 2018. It is also quite small, only 40 nanometers in size. Still, in just five years this tiny pathogen has managed to infect as much as 90% of cannabis facilities in California alone. All while reducing yields by as much as 50% and costing the industry $4 billion in losses.
Zamir shared his latest research on HLVd at CannMed 23, which is the basis of our conversation today. I have put a link to the video of his presentation in the show description. Our conversation covers:
0:00 Introduction
4:38 Why Zamir calls HLVd the “COVID of Cannabis”
8:06 Evidence that HLVd spreads through seed 10:42 What is it doing to cannabis plants?
13:17 How hop growers dealt with HLVd
16:06 Lack of genetic diversity in HLVd
19:50 Up close view of trichomes on HLVd-infected plants
29:57 Treatment and Remediation options
32:53 HLVd Testing protocols
38:41 Sampling recommendations
48:05 Hope for the Future
50:30 Related Resources
52:47 Outro
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: PhenoXpress
PhenoXpress offers low-cost genetic testing services to cultivation facilities. Using qPCR technology, PhenoXpress helps cutlivators identify genetic traits, such as plant sex, while plants are still in the seedling tray. They can also identify plant pathogens, such as Hop Latent Viroid, Lettuce Chlorosis Virus, and Powdery Mildew before plants show obvious signs of infection. Contact PhenoXpress today so they can help you predict, prevent, and eliminate major crop problems before they happen.
Learn more at phenoxpress.com
Additional Resources
Understanding and Managing Hop Latent Viroid in Cannabis - Zamir Punja, PhD [CannMed 23 Presentation]
Hop Latent Viroid Shares a 19 Nucleotide Sequence with Cannabis sativa COG7 - Kevin McKernan [CannMed 23 Presentation] -
Hop Latent Viroid in Cannabis
Review the Podcast!
CannMed Archive
CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
Hunter Land, PhD is the Vice President of Research & Development at Biopharmaceutical Research Company, one of the few DEA Schedule I, FDA compliant cannabinoid research and development companies. He has 20 years of R&D expertise across 25 different indications, as well as 12 years of cannabinoid-focused research. Most notably, he was GW Pharma's first full-time R&D employee in the US, where he played a critical role in the development of Epidiolex® and Sativex®, and co-authored multiple protocols for the treatment of refractory epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and pain.
At CannMed 23, Hunter’s presentation was titled Effect of Cannabinoids and Cannflavins on Neurodegeneration, Lifespan, and Healthspan, which is the basis for our conversation today. You can find a link to that video in the show description.
Topics we discussed include:
Defining lifespan, healthspan, and longevity Why C. elegans are good organisms for studying toxicity and longevity Whe entourage effect, more specifically whether a combination of compounds has a greater effect on longevity than single compounds How do cannabis compounds compare to other longevity drugs like metformin and resveratrol Whether cannabis compounds could be used prophylactically for conditions like Alzheimer's and dementiaDetermining the ideal dosing range for cannabinoids Whether CBD and CBG should be incorporated into a healthy lifestyle to improve longevity
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor - Trulieve
Trulieve strives to bring you the relief you need in a product you can trust. Their plants are hand-grown in a facility with a controlled environment specially designed to reduce unwanted chemicals and pests, keeping the process as natural as possible at every turn. Their mission is to provide compassionate care patients can trust when traditional medicine is not enough. Their specially-trained staff works hand-in-hand with YOUR physician to provide the right products and the correct dosage to ensure you get the compassionate care you need. To learn more visit trulieve.com
Additional Resources
Effect of Cannabinoids and Cannflavins on Neurodegeneration, Lifespan, and Healthspan - Hunter Land (CannMed 23 Presentation Video) Biopharmaceutical Research CompanyReview the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
Arnaud Dumas de Rauly is the co-founder and CEO of The Blinc Group, a company that is transforming the cannabis vaping industry with its focus on safety, innovation, and quality.
As a leading expert in the science, technology, and supply chain of cannabis vaping merchandise, Arnaud’s assistance and expertise in the vaping sector have been requested by multiple regulatory bodies across North America, Europe, and Asia. He currently works pro-bono as Chairman of the ISO, International Organization of Standardization, TC126/SC3 on Vaping Products, and of the CEN Standards Committee TC437 on Vapor Products. He is also a member of the Marijuana Science and Policy Work Group operated by the Colorado Department of Revenue’s MED and CDPHE and the ASTM D37 Cannabis Committee.
At CannMed 23, Arnaud talked about the many variables that affect how well cannabis vape cartridges deliver cannabinoids to the user. During our conversation, we dig deeper into the following topics:
What should consumers and patients be looking at when choosing vape products? The symbiotic relationship between cannabis oil and vape hardware Why emissions testing is important to understand what the user is inhaling Different cannabinoids have different rates of aerosolization. So much so that they may be completely gone before the oil is. How federal legalization may change cannabis vape regulations and requirements Tips for patients who want to vape their medicine
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: The Blinc Group
Headquartered in New York City, The Blinc Group designs, manufactures, and provides premium cannabis vaping hardware. The company offers a curated collection of proven cartridges, batteries, ready to use vaporizers and complete bespoke device development to multi-state operators, licensed producers, processors and brands. Blinc completes the value chain by providing its clients access to a suite of services ranging from 5 month financing options, vendor managed inventory (VMI), R&D, production, product testing, standard operating procedures, training and all the way to go-to-market strategy and brand communications consulting. With full control of the supply chain, the company’s unique “Powered by Blinc” process enables clients to provide innovative, safe and quality controlled products to cannabis consumers worldwide.
To learn more about Blinc, visit http://www.theblincgroup.com
Additional Resources
A First Look Into Cannabis Vaping Variables & Delivery - Arnaud Dumas de Rauly (CannMed 23 Presentation Video)The Cannabis Vape Consumption SurveyThe Blinc Group websiteReview the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
In 2022, Dr. Jeff Rawson founded the Institute of Cannabis Science (ICS), a nonprofit organization that produces Honest Data About Weed. The mission of ICS is to conduct cannabis research that educates consumers, guides regulators to adopt testing regulations that are based on science, and ensures that products are safe for patients and consumers.
At CannMed 23 Dr. Rawson will participate in a panel discussion about Challenges with Regulating the Cannabis Industry as part of the CannMed Laboratory Compliance Testing Workshop.
In December 2022, he made a presentation entitled Misinformation in Cannabis Markets to the members of the Massachusetts (MA) Cannabis Advisory Board Research Subcommittee. Jeff has presented recommendations for corrective actions to prevent misinformation in the MA cannabis market. The Boston Globe has published his letters about the challenges of cannabis regulatory science.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- What the Institute of Cannabis Science is and what they do
- How the average THC% in Massachusetts flower increased from 2019 to 2022, and what could that be a sign of
- The information presented to consumers on dispensary websites is limited and vague
- The challenge of collecting and analyzing cannabis testing data
- How providing more information on cannabis labels leads to healthier consumers
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Brains Bioceutical
Brains Bioceutical is a global leader in EU-GMP-certified production of naturally-sourced active pharmaceutical ingredients for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. With a unique suite of licences, Brains Bioceutical is one of the only natural plant-based phytochemical API manufacturers in commercial production today, and is involved in academic and clinical trials across the globe. Brains Bioceutical is the leader in evidence-based Phyto-cannabinoid health solutions to enhance life and treatment options for all.
Learn more at brainsbioceutical.com
Additional Resources
- Institute of Cannabis Science website
- Eye on Cannabis
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
If you grow or consume cannabis, you’ve benefited from something Michael Straumietis has done. A grower since 1983, Michael’s mission is to make cannabis an acceptable and everyday part of healing humanity. In 1999, he founded Advanced Nutrients and launched the world’s first and only complete cannabis growing system that Hits the Shift and optimizes all phases of the vegetative and bloom cycles to bring cannabis to its true genetic potential.
At CannMed 23, Michael is leading the Cultivation Workshop that focuses on fighting profit-robbing plant pathogens, such as hop latent viroid (HLVd), fusarium, botrytis, pythium, powdery mildew, and Phytophthora. The workshop brings together industry-leading experts who will cover both efficient and economically sound practices for pathogen management, so you can maximize ROI in your cultivation facility. Get ready to explore the science behind each major pathogen, vectors through which they infiltrate facilities and plants, and proven methods for pathogen prevention. We’ll also introduce effective strategies for pathogen detection, as well as critical procedures to implement for continued facility success before, during, and after a pathogen occurrence.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- How plant pathogens can impact growers’ bottom lines
- The emergence of new pathogens and where they may have come from
- The importance of early detection
- Preventing plant pathogens with good SOPs
- New Advanced Nutrients products aimed at helping growers combat pathogens
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients
Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community, and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries.
Learn more at advancednutrients.com
- BigMike on Instagram
- Chat with Buddy on advancednutrients.com
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Bonni Goldstein is one of the country’s most respected and experienced medical cannabis physicians, having treated thousands of patients with medical cannabis. She is the owner and medical director of Canna-Centers Wellness & Education. She is Clinical Advisor to Cannformatics. And she is the author of the book titled “Cannabis is Medicine: How Medical Cannabis and CBD Are Healing Everything from Anxiety to Chronic Pain”.
Bonni is leading the CannMed Medical practicum this year and also presenting about Minor Cannabinoids during the main session. During this episode we dive into one of those cannabinoids, CBG, and discuss the following:
- What makes CBG one of Bonni’s favorite new cannabinoids
- What makes CBG a “bridge” cannabinoid between THC and CBD
- The difference between CBGA and CBG
- How CBG enhances the body’s natural endocannbinoid system
- How CBG works in combination with other cannabinoids
- Conditions for which CBG is a good fit
- Potential adverse reactions to CBG
- A preview of the CannMed Medical Practicum
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: The DENT Institute
With more than 300,000 patient visits per year, the DENT Neurologic Institute ranks among the largest neuroscience centers in North America. Its 24 subspecialty clinics often treat the most challenging neurologic conditions including but not limited to Migraine, Chronic pain, ALS, MS, Parkinson’s, Dementia, Neuro-Oncology, etc. With our mission of advancing neuroscience, we established a cannabis clinic in 2016 to aid in the treatment of these chronic conditions seen throughout our institute.
Learn more at dentinstitute.com
Additional Resources
- What is CBG
- @bonnigoldsteinmd on Instagram
- Bonni Goldstein, MD on LinkedIn
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Anthony Repay is currently serving as Laboratory Director of Method Testing Laboratories in Tampa, FL. Anthony started his career as the head food and environmental microbiologist at a Chicago-based testing laboratory before joining the cannabis science community. Since joining cannabis, Anthony has tried to innovate and push the cannabis microbiology community by publishing peer-reviewed papers, speaking on proper quality control and volunteering in several national wide cannabis groups.
During our conversation we discuss:
- How growers can incorporate microbial testing into their processes
- Sources of microbial contamination and tips for prevention
- How differences in microbial regulations influence growers in certain states
- Remediation technologies
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: RS BioTherapeutics
RS BioTherapeutics’ first investigational compound (RSBT-001) is a nebulized, semi-synthetic, cannabidiolic acid complex in development to address exacerbation and prevent progression of both acute and chronic pulmonary inflammation related to respiratory diseases including COPD, SARS-COV-2, Cystic Fibrosis, Asthma, Bronchitis, and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. More information on RS BioTherapeutics can be found at www.rsbiotherapeutics.com.
Additional Resources
- Anthony Repay on LinkedIn
- Method Testing Laboratories website
- Cannabis Microbial Testing Regulations by State [Interactive Tool]
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Russel Jessup is an Associate Professor at Texas A&M University. Russ started his career developing improved perennial grasses as biorefinery platforms for biofuels, turfgrasses, forage, ornamentals, phytoremediators, and renewable bio-based products. He has since transitioned into working on breeding industrial hemp, during which, he and his team identified a need for field-portable testing technologies that could help accelerate their programs. At CannMed 23, he will present on three of those technologies. Doing our conversation we discuss:
- How a field portable near-infrared spectrometer can be used to screen hemp plants to make sure they don’t exceed 0.3% THC
- How a cellphone-based microscope attachment can determine the size, maturity, and type of trichomes
- How a microfluid channels are used to identify tetraploid hemp plants, which produce better fiber and grain than diploid plants
- How microfiber tents contain pollen from male plants so they can be in the same room as females
- Why Russ moved from perennial grasses to hemp
- The goal of creating stable, consistent industrial hemp lines that can be grown like other modern major crops
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Rare Earth Genomics
Rare Earth Genomics Texas is a partnership formed to accelerate hemp research and produce critical tools for the farmer. REG’s mission is to increase likelihood of a successful harvest through genetic analysis and rigorous environmental testing of vigorous cultivars. Reliable datasets, analytic tools and stable germplasm are core to the program. Success of the farmer is the goal!
Additional Resources
- Russell Jessup on LinkedIn
- Hemp Conversion Program
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Akeem Gardner is the Founder and CEO of Canurta. In 2018 Akeem acquired an Industrial Hemp License from Health Canada and began to farm hemp as he embarked on his entrepreneurial venture, which allowed him to meet with the University of Guelph professors in the summer of 2019 to begin the cannflavin project.
At CannMed 23, he will present “Targeting Glioblastoma Invasion and Survival with Cannabis-Derived Flavonoids”. During our conversation, Akeem provides a preview of that presentation, and insights into the following topics:
- What are flavonoids and how are they different from cannabinoids and terpenes
- The flavonoids that are unique to cannabis, also known as cannflavins
- Why cannflavins are not as well-studies as other cannabis compounds
- How Akeem became interested in cannflavins
- Cantura’s method for isolating, capturing, and concentrating these molecules
- Potential medical applications for cannflavins and how they may work in combination with cannabinoids
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Canurta
Canurta is a preclinical biotechnology company pioneering the discovery and production of novel, polyphenol-rich ingredients to improve chronic disease prevention and recovery. Their research and technology unlocks the significant anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-cancer and neuroprotective potential of plant polyphenols. Canurta aspires to improve health outcomes, promote longevity and pull humans and animals out of the cycle of chronic disease.
To learn more visit canurta.com
Additional Resources
- Interference of neuronal TrkB signaling by the cannabis-derived flavonoids cannflavins A and B
- Akeem Gardner on LinkedIn
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Markus Roggen, PhD is President and Chief Scientific Officer of Delic Labs, a licensed cannabis and psilocybin research laboratory focused on extraction optimization, analytical testing, and process development. Markus has been in the cannabis industry since 2014 and has held several executive positions in analytical and production companies. His research into process optimization and analytical methods has been recognized with a number of awards, and he has become a trusted advisor and mentor to multiple startups, startup accelerators, and organizations, including CannMed.
At CannMed 23, Markus will be presenting the topic, “Of Birds, Bees and Buds: How to Talk About Cannabis and How to Label it Correctly” During our conversation, we discuss some of the issues with current cannabis labeling as well as some potential alternative, including:
- How THC percentage is miscalculated
- The fact that only a fraction of the THC in cannabis flower is actually consumed
- How joint architecture affects the amount of THC the smoker consumes
- Why the ABV percentage in alcohol and THC percentages are not the same
- How establishing a standard unit for cannabis products may shift the focus away from THC percentage and towards aroma, terpene profiles, and flavor
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Juva Life
Founded by pioneers in the science and business of cannabis and guided by a team of highly-acclaimed medical professionals, Juva Life brings unprecedented depth of knowledge in the science and medicinal effects of cannabis. Their vertically integrated approach allows Juva Life to carefully oversee every aspect of development, from cultivation to consumer, with deep expertise in research, testing and efficacy. It’s an approach that enables not only quality and consistency of product but, most importantly, it assures accuracy and legitimacy of testing and research data.
Learn more at juvalife.com
Additional Resources
- DelicLabs.com
- Sell Convenience, Not Math Problems [Cannabis Business Times]
- Totally miscalculated: The Total THC Problem [The Cannabis Scientist]
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Sherman Hom is the Director of Regulatory Affairs at Medicinal Genomics where he provides recommendations to regulatory officials that are tasked with drafting or modifying microbial testing regulations for cannabis, hemp, and psychedelic mushrooms to ensure safe products for patients and consumers. Before Medicinal Genomics, he was at the New Jersey Department of Health, where he led teams that started the Cannabis Testing Laboratory, the Cannabis Microbial Testing Unit, and created the “All States Medical Cannabis Program Required Testing Compendium”.
At CannMed 23 Sherman will share the latest update to the “All States Cannabis Microbial Required Testing Compendium” to elucidate the present landscape, and identify a consensus set of required tests to lower public health risk.
During our conversation we discuss
- How concerned cannabis consumers should be about microbial contamination
- How microbial regulations differ from state to state
- How growers in certain jurisdictions struggle to meet microbial regulations
- The difference between presence-absence and total count microbial tests
- qPCR vs plating
- and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Labware
Labware is recognized as the global leader in providing enterprise-scale laboratory automation solutions with over 40 offices across 6 continents. LabWare’s Enterprise Laboratory Platform is a unique and proven suite of product capabilities that encompass LIMS, ELN, LES, method execution, and SDMS in an integrated and enterprise-ready solution.
Learn more at labware.com.
Additional Resources
- Cannabis Microbial Testing Regulations by State [Interactive Tool]
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Lauren is a Senior Laboratory Technician at SafeTiva Labs in Westfield, MA. She works in both the biological and chemical side of operations, utilizing PCR and chromatography to test cannabis products. Lauren recently obtained her M.S. in Plant Science with a focus on cannabis molecular biology at the University of Connecticut where she focused on how hormones affect cannabinoid production.
During our conversation, we discuss:
- The process for how plants create cannabinoids
- What role hormones play in the cannabinoid synthase process
- Whether a hormone treatment could increase cannabinoid levels
- The ethics around treating plants with exogenous hormones
- How understanding hormones can help guide breeders to creating new cannabis varieties
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Farmer Freeman
Farmer Freeman is a plant genetic testing laboratory serving homegrowers and commercial cultivators. Farmer Freeman offers plant sex testing, hop latent viroid testing, and more to customers around the world. Founded in 2015 in Washington DC, Farmer Freeman is one of the oldest and most trusted laboratories in the cannabis industry. Use Farmer freeman’s genetic testing services to save time, money, and resources in your grow.
Learn more at farmerfreeman.com.
Additional Resources
- Analysis of hormonal regulation of promoter activities of Cannabis sativa prenyltransferase 1 and 4 and salicylic acid mediated regulation of cannabinoid biosynthesis
- SafeTiva Labs
- University of Connecticut CAHNR Cannabis Programs
- Request an Invitation to CannMed 23
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Adie Rae is a neuroscientist known for her extensive expertise on cannabis. She is an Assistant Scientist at Legacy Research Institute, and adjunct faculty at Washington State University. Her human and preclinical research is focused on pain management, addiction, and harm reduction. Adie has published in top academic journals under the surname Wilson-Poe, and she is passionate about the interaction between cannabis and opioids. Adie serves as the Vice-Chair of the Oregon Cannabis Commission, and she is a long-standing member of the International Cannabinoid Research Society. Dr. Rae also co-founded the consulting and technology firm Smart Analytics. Follow her on Instagram: @dr.adie
Our conversation focused on a paper Adie recently co-authored called, “The Nose Knows: Aroma, but Not THC Mediates the Subjective Effects of Smoked and Vaporized Cannabis Flower”. As the title suggests, the study found that a user’s subjective enjoyment of a cannabis flower’s aroma was correlated with that flower producing a pleasant effect for the user. Or more simply put, if you like the way a cannabis flower smells, you are going to like the way it makes you feel.
During our conversation, we discuss,
- The subjectivity of cannabis aroma
- Whether the ability to predict a positive experience through aroma is learned or intuitive
- How closed container markets do a disservice to consumers
- How the study found that the amount of THC in a cultivar did not correlate with a positive user experience and what that means for the industry
- The difference between feeling “high” and feeling “good”
- The importance of tolerance breaks
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients
Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community, and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries.
Learn more at advancednutrients.com
Additional Resources
- The Nose Knows: Aroma, but Not THC Mediates the Subjective Effects of Smoked and Vaporized Cannabis Flower
- Follow Adie on her Instagram: @dr.adie
- Review the Podcast!
- CannMed Archive
- CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
- Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
The CannMed Coffee Talk Podcast is taking the month of December off. We will be back with new episodes starting January 4th.
We are taking this break so that we can focus on processing our CannMed 23 abstract submissions and laying out the program for the summit in May. We received a lot of great submissions, and we expect the CannMed 23 Innovation and Investment Summit will be our best event yet! Thanks again to everyone who sent in an abstract. Our advisors are reviewing each of them now. We plan to make our final decisions later this month and announce our first round of speakers in the new year.
Make sure you are signed up for email alerts so you don’t miss that announcement!
Also be sure to purchase your CannMed Ticket Package before the Early Bird Deadline, which is January 20th. If you have already received an invitation to CannMed 23, you can register directly using the link that was included. And if you haven’t gotten an invitation yet, you can complete our Request an Invitation form.
On behalf of everyone at Medicinal Genomics and CannMed Events, we wish you and yours a safe and happy holiday season. We hope to see you on Marco Island this May for CannMed 23, and we hope you will join us for the next CannMed Coffee Talk!
Dr. Ziva Cooper is the Director of the UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids. She is also an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences and Department of Anesthesiology at the David Geffen School of Medicine.
Her current research involves understanding variables that influence both the therapeutic potential and adverse effects of cannabis and cannabinoids through double-blind, placebo-controlled studies.
One of the variables Ziva and her team are studying is the differences between men and women in their response to the abuse-related and pain-relieving effects of cannabinoids, and the role that circulating hormones and endocannabinoids contribute to these differences,
We discuss:
Key differences in how cannabis affects males vs. femalesFemales metabolize THC differently than malesCannabis use tolerance differences in males vs. femalesFemale reproductive hormones play a role in sensitivity to THCThe importance of placebo-controlled studiesMale vs. Female differences in self-reporting pain, side effects, etc.
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Planetarie
Planetarie is the first & only organic-certified water-extracted CBDa. Female founded Planetarie is truly plant based wellness designed to keep you moving and playing. As the only company to use water extraction, Planetarie keeps CBDa in its raw living form, the way it is actually grown in the hemp plant. CBDa is 18x more bioavailable than CBD and is a powerful anti-inflammatory, acting on the same pathway as NSAIDs (like ibuprofen). Certified USDA Organic. Small batch. Vertically Integrated in our cGMP facility. Transparent. Socially responsible. Unique and powerful to give you the better balance and relief you deserve.
Additional Resources
UCLA Cannabis CenterSex-Dependent Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: A Translational Perspective Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Swathi Varanasi is a bilingual pharmacist specializing in integrative and preventative health. Dr. Swathi has paved the way for other healthcare professionals to pursue non-traditional career paths through creating postdoctoral training programs, industry internships, and online courses focused on integrative medicine and patient-centered shared decision-making. She co-founded and serves as Chief Scientific Officer of the international award-winning clean beauty and wellness brand, Elēment Apothēc.
We discuss:
How Dr. Swathi found cannabis medicine How pharmacists can help cannabis patients with potential drug-to-drug interactions The lack of education about the endocannabinoid system for pharmacists The difficulty healthcare professionals have finding trusted sources of cannabis information Whether pharmacists should be accessible in cannabis dispensaries Canabimimetics, the things we do that improve our endocannabinoid tone
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Medicine Women Health
Medicine Women’s team of specialists includes Medical Doctors, Naturopaths, Medical Cannabis Experts, Nutritionists and Alternative Health Practitioners. These integrative teams evaluate health issues and design targeted protocols to promote personal healing. Medicine Women’s Protocols have successfully alleviated symptoms of Cancer, Auto-Immune Diseases and Neurological Conditions, as well as providing overall Health Rejuvenation.
Learn more at www.medicinewomenhealth.com.
Additional Resources
DrSwathi.comElēment Apothēc websitePatient Perceptions on the Efficacy and Safety of Cannabidiol Products and the Role of the Pharmacist: A Cross-Sectional Study [Peer-Reviewed Study]Submit an Abstract for CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Allison Justice is the Founder and CEO of The Hemp Mine, a 30-acre hemp farm in South Carolina that supplies premium hemp genetics bred in-house across the US. The Hemp Mine produces a wide array of consumer products ranging from smokable flowers to topicals to tinctures of different concentrations for humans and animals. Allison also co-founded the Cannabis Research Coalition, a professional group dedicated to addressing the cultivation and postharvest issues that challenge today’s cannabis industry.
Allison recently co-authored an article in Cannabis Science and Technology titled “Reading the Leaves: Adventures in the Leaf-level Physiology of Cannabis” which takes a deeper look into how cannabis plants respond to light and CO2.
We discuss:
The difference in cannabis photosynthesis rates during vegetative and flowering stages The possibility that during flowering, leaves in the cannabis flower take over the photosynthesis Why cannabis growers may want to reduce light intensity and duration 6 weeks into flower How maximizing light during flower can increase yield but reduce quality Possible varietal differences in photosynthesis rates
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Cannabis Science and Technology
Cannabis Science and Technology is your educational resource for all things on the legal cannabis industry. It covers the latest developments and trends in analytical testing, quality control/assurance, extraction, cultivation, and processing/manufacturing. The brand furnishes all this information into a monthly print magazine and also on their website that includes webcasts, eBooks, podcasts, and more. You can subscribe for free on CannabisScienceTech.com
Additional Resources
Reading the Leaves: Adventures in the Leaf-Level Physiology of CannabisThe Hemp MineThe Cannabis Research CoalitionSubmit an Abstract for CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
Nathaniel Pennington is the Founder and CEO of Humboldt Seed Company. He has been supplying high-quality cannabis seeds to growers since 2001. In 2018 they hosted the World’s Largest Phenotype Hunt, teaming with local farmers, industry experts, and top researchers, many of whom are CannMed alumni. We talked about the Mega Phenohunt Project as well as Nat’s process for breeding consistent and reproducible cannabis seeds. Topics include:
The Phenotype Rating Sheet used to evaluate plants The process of creating stable, purebred lines Why Humboldt Seed Company chooses to sell purebred linesBenefits of growing from seed rather than clone Benefits of autoflower varieties and common misconceptions The importance of legacy growers collaborating with academics and researchers
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients
Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community, and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries.
Learn more at advancednutrients.com
Additional Resources
Phenotype Mega Hunt VideoPhenotype Rating Sheet FormHumboldt Seed Company YouTube Channel@thehumboldtseedcompany on InstagramSubmit an Abstract for CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]
Pam Miles is the CEO and founder of Apothercare, a company that partners with scientists performing women's health research. Cindy Orser, PhD is currently Chief Scientific Officer at CLIP LABS, a cannabis testing laboratory in California, and she has more than 25 years of experience innovating technologies related to cannabis, human diagnostics, and even detecting biothreat agents. Cindy is also a member of the CannMed 23 Advisory Board, and she has been a panelist at several past CannMed events.
As you will hear in the interview, Pam and Cindy met at CannMed 2019, which is great example of how attending a CannMed event can lead to important professional partnerships. We talked about the work Pam and Cindy have done to understand how cannabis affects the human microbiome, specifically the vaginal microbiome. Other topics include:
Why a healthy reproductive microbiome is important for women's health The antimicrobial activity of cannabinoidsThe lack of safety testing around women’s health products How cannabinoids affect the gut microbiome How bacteria communicate with the human body and affect mental health
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Medicine Women Health
Medicine Women’s team of specialists includes Medical Doctors, Naturopaths, Medical Cannabis Experts, Nutritionists and Alternative Health Practitioners. These integrative teams evaluate health issues and design targeted protocols to promote personal healing. Medicine Women’s Protocols have successfully alleviated symptoms of Cancer, Auto-Immune Diseases and Neurological Conditions, as well as providing overall Health Rejuvenation.
Learn more at www.medicinewomenhealth.com.
Additional Resources
Intimate Care Products with Cannabinoids Need More Safety Data [Cannabis Industry Journal]Apothercare websiteSubmit an Abstract for CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Pam Miles is the CEO and founder of Apothercare, a company that partners with scientists performing women's health research. Cindy Orser, PhD is currently Chief Scientific Officer at CLIP LABS, a cannabis testing laboratory in California, and she has more than 25 years of experience innovating technologies related to cannabis, human diagnostics, and even detecting biothreat agents. Cindy is also a member of the CannMed 23 Advisory Board, and she has been a panelist at several past CannMed events.
As you will hear in the interview, Pam and Cindy met at CannMed 2019, which is great example of how attending a CannMed event can lead to important professional partnerships. We talked about the work Pam and Cindy have done to understand how cannabis affects the human microbiome, specifically the vaginal microbiome. Other topics include:
Why a healthy reproductive microbiome is important for women's health The antimicrobial activity of cannabinoidsThe lack of safety testing around women’s health products How cannabinoids affect the gut microbiome How bacteria communicate with the human body and affect mental health
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Medicine Women Health
Medicine Women’s team of specialists includes Medical Doctors, Naturopaths, Medical Cannabis Experts, Nutritionists and Alternative Health Practitioners. These integrative teams evaluate health issues and design targeted protocols to promote personal healing. Medicine Women’s Protocols have successfully alleviated symptoms of Cancer, Auto-Immune Diseases and Neurological Conditions, as well as providing overall Health Rejuvenation.
Learn more at www.medicinewomenhealth.com.
Additional Resources
Intimate Care Products with Cannabinoids Need More Safety Data [Cannabis Industry Journal]Apothercare websiteSubmit an Abstract for CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
David Traylor is Senior Managing Director at Golden Eagle Partners, a firm he originally founded in to advise life science companies. After advising on various transactions in the life science sector, he took an interest in the cannabis sector and started advising cannabis companies before eventually re-founding Golden Eagle Partners in 2014 to focus on advising companies across the cannabis sector. Before Golden Eagle Partners, David served at leading investment banking firms including Pacific Growth Equities, Caris & Company, and Headwaters MB. During his banking tenures he has advised private and public biotechnology and medical device companies in various transactions including IPOs, public offerings, private offerings, mergers and acquisitions totaling over $500 million in value.
During our conversation we discuss:
The current cannabis investment outlook Challenges cannabis innovators face when raising capital How federal prohibition affects innovation and investment into cannabis technologies Emerging international markets that may eventually outpace the US Preview of the Capital Markets Workshop taking place at CannMed 23
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Golden Eagle Partners
Golden Eagle Partners are transactional experts that have combined experience in the early stages of the cannabis and life science sectors, which help them to confidently close strategic and financing transactions that match the near- and long-term goals of their clients. They specialize in mergers, acquisitions, reverse mergers, financings, and incremental transactions such as licensing, joint ventures, and co-development arrangements.
Learn more at goldeneaglepartners.com
Additional Resources
A Weed Grows in Davos [Rolling Stone]Golden Eagle PartnersSubmit an Abstract for CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
David Traylor is Senior Managing Director at Golden Eagle Partners, a firm he originally founded in to advise life science companies. After advising on various transactions in the life science sector, he took an interest in the cannabis sector and started advising cannabis companies before eventually re-founding Golden Eagle Partners in 2014 to focus on advising companies across the cannabis sector. Before Golden Eagle Partners, David served at leading investment banking firms including Pacific Growth Equities, Caris & Company, and Headwaters MB. During his banking tenures he has advised private and public biotechnology and medical device companies in various transactions including IPOs, public offerings, private offerings, mergers and acquisitions totaling over $500 million in value.
During our conversation we discuss:
The current cannabis investment outlook Challenges cannabis innovators face when raising capital How federal prohibition affects innovation and investment into cannabis technologies Emerging international markets that may eventually outpace the US Preview of the Capital Markets Workshop taking place at CannMed 23
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Golden Eagle Partners
Golden Eagle Partners are transactional experts that have combined experience in the early stages of the cannabis and life science sectors, which help them to confidently close strategic and financing transactions that match the near- and long-term goals of their clients. They specialize in mergers, acquisitions, reverse mergers, financings, and incremental transactions such as licensing, joint ventures, and co-development arrangements.
Learn more at goldeneaglepartners.com
Additional Resources
A Weed Grows in Davos [Rolling Stone]Golden Eagle PartnersSubmit an Abstract for CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Kyle R.L. Baker is the CSO and Co-Founder of EcoBuds and CleanTheory. He founded the companies based upon a deep understanding and experience in socio-technical design and econometric modeling and their application to disease mitigation. As a cannabis entrepreneur, Kyle focuses his attention on scientific verification methods and weighted decision-making to ensure the end-to-end delivery of clean and compliant cannabis to consumers, most notably medical patients.
Clean cannabis is one of the biggest challenges facing growers. Microbes, viruses, and pests can devastate cannabis and hemp crops, greatly reducing product quality and yield. Growers must also meet state-mandated testing requirements for microbial contamination before the product can be sold in a dispensary.
During our conversation we discuss:
The different types of pests and pathogens and how they affect growers’ yield and product qualityWhy many disease and pest management solutions used in food do not apply to cannabisHow overly onerous testing requirements can force growers to irradiate productThe risks and downsides of irradiation and remediationCommon sources of contamination in cannabis growsSteps growers can take to prevent pest and disease in their facilities
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Medicinal Genomics
Medicinal Genomics uses its unmatched knowledge into the cannabis genome and the microbes that impact cannabis plants to create a diverse set of testing solutions that improve crop yield, accelerate breeding, and ensure product safety.
MGC’s PathoSEEK® qPCR Detection Assays are trusted by the top cannabis testing labs for microbial compliance testing and growers also trust PathoSEEK to screen crops for harmful pathogens.
Learn more at medicinalgenomics.com
Additional Resources
CLEANTheory websiteEPA Website Cannabis Microbial Testing Regulations by StateSubmit an Abstract for CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Dale Hunt is a plant scientist, a Cannabis lawyer, and a registered U.S. patent attorney with over 20 years of experience protecting plant varieties in the United States and throughout the world. Dale is the founder of Plant & Planet Law Firm, an Intellectual Property Law practice, where he provides guidance and expertise on patents and IP matters, and aids clients in establishing IP protection for their legal cannabis cultivars, products and businesses.
At CannMed 2022, Dale participated on a panel discussion titled, "The Impacts of Legalization on the Cannabis Legacy & the Need for Solutions to Create A Healthier Industry" where he provided his expertise with regards to how legacy breeders can protect their IP.
This episode's conversation covers:
The different types of patents that can be used to protect cannabis and hemp plants What plant patents cover as well as specific exemptions How plant patents can be challenged or invalidated The panic that ensued after the Biotech Institute began patenting cannabis plants in 2017 and how it affected the industryThe biggest hurdles that prevent breeders from protecting their plants How breeders can determine which plants are worth patenting
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Breeder's Best
Breeder's Best is the first company to specialize in licensing patent-protected Cannabis genetics and the only company in the Cannabis space to exclusively serve independent Cannabis breeders. Borne from a desire to help independent Cannabis breeders become and/or remain economically viable and not be left behind in this rapidly changing industry, Breeder’s Best exists to bridge the gap between independent Cannabis breeders and the marketplace using a licensing model proven in horticultural industries.
Learn more at BreedersBest.com
Additional Resources
Dale's Plant Law Blog Submit an Abstract for CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Jeff Chen is the Co-founder and CEO of Radicle Science, a health tech company generating history's first dataset and AI to prove and predict the effects of health and wellness products. Previously, he was the Founder and Exec Director of the UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative.
At CannMed 2022, Dr. Chen presented results for Radicle Health’s ACES study, a randomized clinical trial, involving 13 CBD products and 3,000 participants. The project was possible thanks to Radicle Science’s unique, virtual approach to clinical trials, which removes many challenges that make them expensive and difficult to conduct.
Topics covered during the conversation include:
The many challenges associated with performing clinical trials on cannabinoids How a virtual, direct-to-consumer approach overcomes many of those challenges The value brands, manufacturers, and distributors get from clinical trial data Results from the ACES Study, the largest randomized CBD clinical trial in history How Radicle applied lessons learned from ACES study to design the Radicle Spectrum study Other minor cannabinoids that Radicle Science is investigating and which have the most therapeutic potential
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Planetarie
Female-founded Planetarie is truly plant-based wellness designed to keep you moving and playing. Planetarie created a water-based, hemp extraction method and built a vertically integrated company with USDA-organic certified products made from that full-spectrum stable CBDa. The answer for plant-based anti-inflammation is found in Nature, beautifully harnessed with science.
Learn more at planetarie.com
Additional Resources
Results of Radicle Science’s ACES Study: Largest Randomized Trial of CBD in History - CannMed 2022 PresentationRadicle Science WebsiteReview the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Jini Curry is the laboratory director at Modern Canna Laboratories’ Lakeland, FL facility, where she focuses on developing standardized methods for analyzing cannabis to ensure harmful toxins are not present. Before entering the cannabis industry, Jini gained valuable research experience at several well-respected institutes, including Emory University, the National Institute of Aging, and the University of Florida. Curry recently received her Master’s in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics from the University of Maryland. In addition to running laboratory operations for Modern Canna, Jini is also active in other areas of the cannabis industry. She currently serves on the Scientific Advisory Board for Analytical Cannabis and is a member of the CASP Proficiency Testing Advisory Task Force with AOAC International.
Jini and her team recently performed a study that compared the various methods for testing total yeast and mold. Their results showed that there is very little agreement between the methods, calling into question whether total yeast and mold is even a useful test.
In this episode we discuss:
Why states require total yeast and mold testingThe different types of testing methods and how widely the results varyHow labs may not be giving yeast and mold enough time to grow Whether the variance in total yeast and mold testing lead to lab shoppingShould total yeast and mold even be a required test
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Modern Canna Laboratories
Modern Canna is regarded as Florida’s first medical cannabis laboratory and one of the most trusted third party testing providers in the United States. The company’s mission is to help set the standard for cannabis testing labs worldwide by providing the most accurate and efficient testing services, delivered with a sense of compassion, integrity, and moral obligation; and to attract and attain clients who value quality data that is verifiable, reproducible, and legally defensible. Modern Canna is the only Leafly Certified laboratory in the eastern United States and adheres to the industry’s strictest SOPs and quality control standards. Leafly assesses and selects laboratories based on the latest scientific technology, analytical services offered, inter-laboratory studies, data integrity policies, and the quality control systems in place. Modern Canna offers a wide variety of testing, rapid turnaround times, and consulting services to Florida Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTC’s) and hemp businesses throughout the US. With over 27,000 sq ft of combined lab testing space and the industry’s most advanced analytical technologies to date, Modern Canna’s facilities are second to none.
For more information visit https://www.moderncanna.com/
Additional Resources:
Total Yeast and Mold Counts with Jini CurryCannabis Testing Labs: What, How, and WhyIs there a correlation between Potency and Nutrients?Are cannabis packaging materials leading to heavy metals leachability?Modern Canna on LinkedInReview the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Markus Roggen, President and Chief Scientific Officer at DELIC Labs, is back to discuss the challenges that come with testing psilocybin and psychedelic mushrooms.
Markus has been in the cannabis industry since 2014 and has held several executive positions in analytical and production companies. His research into process optimization and analytical methods has been recognized with a number of awards, and he has become a trusted advisor and mentor to multiple startups, startup accelerators and organizations, including CannMed. At DELIC labs, Markus and his team have spent the past two years developing analytical methods for psilocybin and other psychedelics, which is an emerging medicinal industry that is following in the footsteps of the cannabis industry.
Our conversation covers the following topics:
The regulations in Canada that make it favorable for psychedelic research What does psilocybin medicine look like and how is it created Whether psilocybin will become a mass-market recreational product How psilocybin analytics differs from cannabinoid analytics The difference between psilocybin and psilocin What types of impurities/contaminants are a concern with psilocybin productsThe process of discovering new tryptamine compounds in psychedelic mushrooms Future research projects (psilocybin extraction and optimal storage conditions)
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Agilent Technologies
Whether you manufacture or test cannabis, you face the challenge of delivering high-quality products, increasing sample volume, and meeting emerging regulations. Agilent offers best-in-class cannabis and hemp analysis solutions featuring robust instruments, software, services, and consumables. Our team of experts can develop, implement, and optimize methods to get you up and running quickly.
Learn more at www.agilent.com/chem/cannabis
Additional Resources
DELIC Labs websiteReview the Podcast! CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Heather Grab is a Senior Lecturer at Cornell University’s School of Integrated Plant Science where she delivers best practices for the cultivation and processing of hemp to professionals in Cornell's Hemp Science MPS program. She works with plant breeders, pathologists, biochemists, extension professionals, regulatory officials, and industry partners in New York state and across the globe to translate the latest science and industry insights into a curriculum that covers hemp from soil to sale.
So it should come as no surprise that our conversation covered a wide range of topics related to hemp cultivations. Those topics include:
How Heather got involved in studying hemp Overview of the Cornell University Hemp Research Program Research into IPM in hemp. Finding out which pests are most harmful to outdoor hemp plants The wide variety of hemp varieties that Cornell grows in their field trials and how they prevent male fiber crops from pollinating the cannabinoid-rich plants What is preventing hemp from displacing other legacy crops How pollinators, specifically bees, interact with hemp plants How frost and other stresses affect cannabinoid levels
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor Conception Nurseries
Conception Nurseries, the world’s largest micropropagation lab, brings proven agricultural technology to cannabis with tissue culture technology (micropropagation). To date, cannabis cultivators have been dependent on mother plants to produce clones – resulting in inconsistent harvests with diluted and uncontrollable traits. Tissue culture technology, which is widely used in industrial agriculture to address the exact problems cannabis cultivators face today, allows Conception to quickly mass-produce identical, disease-free plantlets with customized and consistent characteristics. This reduces cultivators’ operational risks and costs while increasing their revenues and delivering a dependable end-user experience.
For more information, visit conceptionnurseries.com.
Additional Resources
Cornell Hemp FactsheetsHeather Brab LinkedInEffects of Cold Temperature and Acclimation on Cold Tolerance and Cannabinoid Profiles of Cannabis sativa L. (Hemp)CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
TJ Martin is the VP of R&D at Abstrax, a company that specializes in the research, development, and production of botanically-derived and cannabis-inspired terpenes. TJ and his team recently published a paper that identified a new class of aromatic cannabis compounds called volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), which are responsible for the signature skunky, gassy smell that is so prominent in certain cannabis cultivars. This was a major breakthrough for their team because as TJ mentions in the conversation, a common criticism of botanical terpenes is that they can’t recreate the signature gas smell of an OG or Gelato. It was that critique that inspired TJ and his team to investigate what they were missing, and lo and behold they found VSCs!
During our conversation, we discuss:
Abstrax’s process for recreating flavor profiles for classic cannabis strains How TJ and the team used multidimensional gas chromatography to separate compounds by molecular size and polarity revealing additional compounds How even though VSC concentrations are orders of magnitude lower than terpenes, their effect on our taste and smell is much higher The similarities in structure between cannabis VSCs and VSCs found in garlic (view the figure) and what medicinal implications that discovery may haveAlthough VSCs are an needed to create the skunk, gassy aroma, it is actually a combination of VSCs and other terpenes that makes that signature smell
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients.
Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community, and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries.
Learn more at advancednutrients.com
Additional Resources
AbstraxTech.comIdentification of a New Family of Prenylated Volatile Sulfur Compounds in Cannabis Revealed by Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas ChromatographyCannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
We are back with three more conversations that were recorded live on-site at CannMed 2022 in the CannMed Coffee Talk Lounge. First up is Cultivation Keynote Presenter Seth Crawford from Oregon CBD. Seth discussed:
THCV: How it is synthesized in the plant and why it is an important cannabinoid for hemp farmersWhy industrial hemp has not taken off the way some have predicted Oregon CBD’s move into the THC market, offering triploid and tetraploid varieties to cannabis growers.
Next, Ini Afia, Chief Scientific Officer from Cannasafe talked about how he and other California labs are preparing for the Department of Cannabis Control’s efforts to standardize lab testing in the state and crack down on lab shopping. He explains tge problem of lab shopping and how it harms everyone in the industry from consumers to lawmakers. Ini also took part in a panel discussion about cannabis nutrients, so we also briefly talked about how different cannabis cultivars can uptake nutrients differently.
Finally, Dedi Meiri of the Technion Institute in Israel shared his vision of the future in which medicinal plants and polypharmacology will gain more acceptance from healthcare providers. He also explains why he believes cannabis opened the door for this new possibility.
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Medicine Women Health
Medicine Women’s team of specialists includes Medical Doctors, Naturopaths, Medical Cannabis Experts, Nutritionists and Alternative Health Practitioners. These integrative teams evaluate health issues and design targeted protocols to promote personal healing. Medicine Women’s Protocols have successfully alleviated symptoms of Cancer, Auto-Immune Diseases and Neurological Conditions, as well as providing overall Health Rejuvenation.
Learn more at medicinewomenhealth.com.
Additional Resources
CannMed Coffee Talk Lounge VideosCannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
CannMed 2022 is officially in the books. Thank you to all our attendees, presenters, sponsors, exhibitors, media partners, and team members behind the scenes who make it all possible. It was great to see everyone in person again and learn about the latest advancements in the field. We discussed novel cannabinoids, new treatment protocols, exciting new advances in breeding and cultivation, stronger safety testing methods and of course, the latest advances in our understanding and use of medicinal mushrooms.
We also had the chance to record interviews with some of our presenters in the CannMed Coffee Talk Lounge that we had set up at the venue. Today's episode will feature three of those conversations. The first is with Science Keynote presenter Ethan Russo, MD. The second is with presenter and medical practicum instructor Eloise Theisen, NP. And last but certainly not least is Medicine Keynote, Medical Practicum Instructor, and CannMed staple Bonni Goldstein, MD. Each conversation is 10-15 minutes long and we talk about the value of in-person meetings, such as CannMed, as well as details about each of their presentations.
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Medicine Women Health
Medicine Women’s team of specialists includes Medical Doctors, Naturopaths, Medical Cannabis Experts, Nutritionists and Alternative Health Practitioners. These integrative teams evaluate health issues and design targeted protocols to promote personal healing. Medicine Women’s Protocols have successfully alleviated symptoms of Cancer, Auto-Immune Diseases and Neurological Conditions, as well as providing overall Health Rejuvenation.
Learn more at medicinewomenhealth.com.
Additional Resources
CannMed Coffee Talk Lounge Videos CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Kevin Spelman returns to discuss what research has been done on the minor cannabinoids. The major cannabinoids, Delta-9 THC and CBD, have gotten most of the attention when it comes to cannabis medicine research. But we know that cannabis medicine is a team effort, and there are a variety of compounds that contribute to the entourage effect, including terpenoids, flavonoids, stilbenoids, and minor cannabinoids.
Kevin has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to medicinal plant, nutraceutical, and cannabinoid research and has authored 29 peer-reviewed publications on medicinal plants. Over the last 30 years, he has coordinated new product development, formulated product lines, and advised on analytical and QC guidelines, research activity, and educational curriculums for industry and universities. Kevin is also an instructor on the CannMed 2022 Medical Practicum.
During our conversation we discuss:
Most of the research into minor cannabinoids is pre-clinical and in isolation, which means our understanding of how they contribute to the entourage effect is largely unknown The different classes of cannabinoids (neutral, acids, and varins) How different forms of cannabinoids can sometimes have an opposite effect on cell receptors. For example THCA vs THCV. What minor cannabinoids consumers can look for in products A recap of what is known about the major, minor cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, CBC, THCA, CBDA, THCV, and CBDV)
Thank You to This Episode's Sponsor: The Cannigma
The Cannigma is a cannabis education site that’s committed to making sure scientific information about cannabis is accessible to anyone who needs it – be it to relieve their own suffering or that of a loved one, to learn a bit more, or even just for fun. The site takes an evidence-based approach to every issue surrounding cannabis – from safety to cooking to medical research – and makes all of that information digestible and useful.
Learn more at cannigma.com.
Additional Resources
The Spelman ReportphytochemKS.comCannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Jaime Brambila and his wife Nicole specialize in coaching and educating patients about the clinical use of cannabinoids and other plant-based medicines. The principal aspects of their mission are to democratize plant-based medicine and democratize the science, taking the complex pharmacological information and breaking it down so everyone can understand the therapeutic potential.
At CannMed 2022, Jaime will present a case study in which the combined use of cannabis, psilocybin, Ketogenic-LC/HF diet, and conventional oncology treatments induced remission in a stage IV metastatic breast cancer patient. That patient just so happens to be his wife, Nicole.
During our conversation, we discuss:
The lack of awareness and training amongst physicians about the clinical use of cannabis The enduring stigma around cannabis use How cannabis can be used to treat cancer How Jamie and Nicole built the infrastructure necessary to have access to consistent, high-quality, pharmaceutical-grade cannabis medicines to treat her cancer The barriers that prevent other patients from accessing quality, consistent cannabis medicine The collaborative project that Jamie and Nicole have assembled to take cannabis formulations against cancer through the drug approval process
Thank You to This Episode's Sponsor: Grace Health & Wellness
Grace Health & Wellness aims to enrich healthcare through compassion, empathy and scientific knowledge, so we may turn the corner and achieve a better age of holistic wellbeing—nourishing mind, body and soul. They do so by producing effective plant-based medicines for individuals seeking alternative therapies.
Learn more at gracehw.com
Additional Resources
Grace Health & Wellness website Medical Cannabis as an Adjunct Therapy to Cancer Treatment: One Patient’s Journey from Diagnosis to Remission [Article]CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Robert Thomas is the principal of Scientific Solutions, a consulting company that serves the training, application, marketing, and writing needs of the trace element user community. He has worked in the field of atomic and mass spectroscopy for more than 45 years, including 25 years for a manufacturer of atomic spectroscopic instrumentation. In recent years, Rob has become a prolific writer on the topic, with more than 100 technical publications to his name. He has authored three textbooks on ICP-MS, the technology labs use to detect trace elements, and in his latest book, titled “Measuring Heavy Metal Contaminants in Cannabis and Hemp”, he applies his knowledge to the nascent cannabis and hemp testing space.
In our conversation we discuss:
What brought Rob to the cannabis and hemp industry How heavy metal testing in the cannabis and hemp industry differs from the pharmaceutical industry Why cannabis and hemp are particularly susceptible to heavy metal contamination The multiple sources of contamination throughout cultivation and processingSteps growers and producers can take to limit heavy metal contamination The current and future regulatory requirements for heavy metal testing
Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: Pigment Tracker
The Pigment Tracker is a fluorescence spectrophotometer designed to allow cannabis processors and operators a way to quickly, accurately, and cheaply record the pigments in an extract or flower sample. Record keeping allows for more repeatable processing which lowers the likelihood that batches will be rejected by clients or final consumers.
Learn More about Pigment Tracker
Additional Resources
Measuring Heavy Metal Contaminants in Cannabis and Hemp (Paperback version) The Importance of Measuring Heavy Metal Contaminants in Cannabis and Hemp (White paper)The Challenges of Measuring Heavy Metal Contaminants in Cannabis Vaping Aerosols A Conflicting Personality: Can Hyperaccumulating Plants like Cannabis and Hemp be Realistically Used as a Safe Source of Cannabinoids?The Role of ICP-MS in Understanding the Toxicological Link Between Lead Contamination in Cannabis and Hemp Consumer Products and Human Disease Expanding the Panel of Elemental Contaminants in Cannabis and Hemp Consumer Products by ICP-MS: Do You Know the Cost Difference?Heavy Metals in Cannabis and Hemp Education (LinkedIn Group)CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Punya Nachappa, PhD runs a research program at Colorado State University that is focused on understanding the interactions between plants, pathogens, and insect vectors in crops, including hemp. Her team recently published a paper that identified several different viruses in Colorado hemp samples, most notably Beet Curly Top Virus (BCTV), which is a pathogen known to infect several different plant species. in our conversation we discuss:
The prevalence of BCTV in Colorado hemp How BCTV compares to Hop Latent Viroid The BCTV disease progression in hemp and cannabis plants The only known mode of transmission for BCTV, the beet leafhopperStrategies for preventing BCTV and keeping leafhoppers away Other viruses and viroids cannabis and hemp growers should be aware of
Thank You to This Episode's Sponsor: UgenTec
UgenTec offers smart analysis & workflow software for endpoint genotyping and qPCR pathogen testing. Stop looking at every cluster or curve - let AI do the work, and lab staff do the review. Whether you test for plant & seed health or run studies for breeding or crop science, FastFinder will allow you to scale up: slash eyes-on time on cluster calling and genotyping, automate PCR curve calling and result reporting, organize your lab’s plates, runs and studies, and learn from historic data to improve interpretation speed and quality. Are you running high throughput PCR, NGS or Mass Spec in plant molecular biology, seed health, plant pathogens, or genotyping? Get a live demonstration of FastFinder!
Learn more at ugentec.com
Additional Resources
First Insights Into the Virus and Viroid Communities in Hemp (Cannabis sativa) Virus Infection and Host Plant Suitability Affect Feeding Behaviors of Cannabis Aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae), a Newly Described Vector of Potato Virus YWild Wild West: Emerging Viruses and Viroids of Hemp@NachappaPunya on TwitterThe Nachappa Lab at Colorado State University
Itzhak Kurek, PhD is CEO & Co-Founder of Cannformatics. Itzhak and his team are measuring the effectiveness of cannabis-based medicines using biomarkers. So far, they have identified dozens of cannabis-responsive biomarkers that can be used to objectively quantify the physiological impact of medical cannabis treatment and provide a tool for investigating the metabolic pathways affected by medical cannabis and CBD. Their pilot study looked at patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder and was published in the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research in December.
During our conversation, we discussed:
Details of the ASD Pilot Study The benefits of using biomarkers vs self-reporting The bidirectional nature of cannabis and the endocannabinoid system The importance of whole-plant / full-spectrum medicine products How the focus on THC-potency stifles medical research The challenge of doing proper medical cannabis research with limited resources and available funding
Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: Cannabis Patient Care
Cannabis Patient Care magazine is an educational resource for patients, medical professionals, caregivers, and advocates on the latest research, benefits, and treatment options medical cannabis provides for a variety of illnesses.
Learn more at cannapatientcare.com
Additional Resources
Cannabis-Responsive Biomarkers: A Pharmacometabolomics-Based Application to Evaluate the Impact of Medical Cannabis Treatment on Children with Autism Spectrum DisorderCannformatics websiteCannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Lelehnia DuBois and Daniel Hendricks are longtime Humboldt County residents who are working to preserve the unique culture and cannabis genetics that have developed in the region. Along with other collaborators, they have created The Humboldt Grace Legacy Project for the purpose of working to protect, authenticate, and validate legacy cannabis genetics through collaborative design.
Lele is the Founder and Board Chair of Humboldt Grace, whose mission is to empower the community in rural northwest California through education, events, and projects that promote and share the culture of the region. Lele grew up in two worlds. Her father lived on the Southern California beaches while her mother had a homestead deep in heart of the Emerald Triangle. It was with her mother where Lele experienced much of the trauma associated with the war on drugs, including raids, family homelessness, death, kidnapping, and abuse. That experience was enough to make her want nothing to do with cannabis as an adult. But that changed in 1999 when she sustained a life-changing spinal cord injury. Lele began to implement the alternative healing tools her mother taught her after western medicines failed. She, now believes the cannabis plant is a large part of her ability to thrive and sees it as a vehicle to help create positive change in her community that has been oppressed by the drug war.
Daniel is the CEO and co-founder of HENDRX Farms, which holds an Annual California Cannabis Nursery License, providing compliant clean cannabis plant genetics to the licensed cannabis producers in California. Daniel’s journey and passion for cannabis began at an early age, in 1996 in his hometown of Arcata, Humboldt County California. Affirmed by the scientific process, community relationships, and sustainable practices, these opportunities have flourished. With his own special focus on genetics and breeding, this unique plant aided in personal growth and mental health.
Topics discussed:
Humboldt County’s unique culture The Humboldt resident’s experience with the drug war and feelings about cannabis legalization. The valuable cannabis-specific knowledge that legacy growers have and why they need to be connected with cannabis researchers and academics to move the industry forwardThe Legacy Project’s mission to preserve Humboldt unique cannabis genetics and create greater access to the market for legacy growers through auction
Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: HENDRX Farm
ROOTED in Humboldt County, HENDRX Farm is a craft cannabis nursery that specializes in cannabis breeding, phenotype discovery, and nursery production of elite cloned plant starts, seeds, and seed starts. Recognized for premium quality, scientific process, and community ethics, HENDRX clones can be reserved by businesses and home growers via special request at hendrx.farm
Additional Resources
The Humboldt Grace Legacy ProjectCannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Ethan Russo returns to the podcast to help us make sense of the slew of studies and articles claiming cannabis can treat and/or prevent COVID-19 infection.
Dr. Russo is a board-certified neurologist, a psychopharmacology researcher, an author, a lecturer, and a consultant. He is a CannMed 2022 Keynote Presenter, where he will present on Cannabis and Psychiatry. Although Dr. Russo is not a virologist, he is a very accomplished medical cannabis researcher, and he is well-qualified to help us find the signal in all the noise. During the conversation, we discuss:
What role the endocannabinoid system plays in preventing and clearing a viral infection The different levels of clinical research The importance of peer review process The University of Chicago study that claims CBD inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication The Oregon University Study that claims cannabinoid acids can prevent covid infection Animal models showing CBD can calm the cytokine storm A preprint study claiming CBD primes the innate immune system Claims that cannabis smokers have a greater risk for COVID-19 infection
Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: Project CBD
Founded in 2010, Project CBD is the first and longest-running website dedicated to research and education on the benefits of CBD, and the premier destination for both curious and committed CBD consumers. Often the first to report on cutting-edge health issues, Project CBD reporting reflects a deeper understanding of developments in cannabinoid science and therapeutics.
Learn more at ProjectCBD.com
Additional Resources
Cannabidiol inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication through induction of the host ER stress and innate immune responsesCannabinoids Block Cellular Entry of SARS-CoV-2 and the Emerging VariantsEvaluation of Serum Cytokines Levels and the Role of Cannabidiol Treatment in Animal Model of AsthmaIn search of preventive strategies: novel high-CBD Cannabis sativa extracts modulate ACE2 expression in COVID-19 gateway tissuesCannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Ini Afia is the Chief Science Officer at Cannasafe, a licensed cannabis testing lab in southern California. He has also set up multiple labs with best-in-class methodology, processes, and technology throughout his career. And at Cannasafe he has the team towards greater credibility, consistency, and accountability for their clients, regulators, and consumers.
Ini returns to the podcast to discuss the push to standardize cannabis testing labs in California.
In late November, the California Department of Cannabis Control issued a statement that they are planning to standardize operating procedures and methods for California cannabis labs by January 2023. This announcement got a mixed reaction. On the one hand, consumers and producers, who have expressed frustration with inconsistencies in lab results, welcomed the idea. However, many laboratory professionals were quick to point out that it’s easier said than done. Especially because the state didn’t offer much insight into what exactly the DCC would standardize or how they would do it.
During the conversation we discuss :
Why lab standardization is a good idea The problem of lab shopping Why some labs intentionally inflate THC values How natural variations in the cannabis plant can create a range of potency results How mishandling certified reference materials can throw off lab results Why labs need to be more transparent with their measurement of uncertaintyWhether standardization will stifle lab innovation which is so important in an emerging industry
Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: Cannasafe
CannaSafe is a California-based cannabis analytical testing lab paving the way in the industry through research, education, and social equity efforts. Championing safe and effective cannabis, hemp, and CBD for all, one test at a time.
Learn more at csalabs.com
Additional Resources
California rolls out plans to standardize cannabis testing statewide [Article]Senate Bill No. 544 CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Bonni Goldstein returns to the podcast to discuss examples where cannabis may be a safer and more effective therapeutic than traditional pharmaceutical drugs.
Bonni is one of the country’s most respected and experienced medical cannabis physicians, having treated thousands of patients with medical cannabis. She is the owner and medical director of Canna-Centers Wellness & Education. She is Clinical Advisor to Cannformatics. And she is the author of the book titled “Cannabis is Medicine: How Medical Cannabis and CBD Are Healing Everything from Anxiety to Chronic Pain”.
Topics discussed include:
Substituting cannabis for NSAIDSSubstituting cannabis for anti-anxiety and antidepressant medicationSubstituting cannabis for opioidsSubstituting cannabis for sleeping pillsSubstituting cannabis for alcoholTips for dosingFormulation recommendationsResults from a new study evaluating cannabis to treat Autism
Thank You to This Episode's Sponsor: Cannformatics
Cannformatics is an early-stage biotechnology startup focused on developing Cannabis-Responsive™ biomarkers as a universal tool for measuring cannabis’ and CBD’s physiological impact. Cannformatics provides health care professionals, patients and medical cannabis producer processors with the tools and technology needed for developing evidence-based medical cannabis and CBD treatments and products. Cannformatics mission is to develop technologies that enable predictable and repeatable science-based medical cannabis outcomes that improve health and quality of life.
To learn more visit cannformatics.com
Additional Resources
Cannabis is Medicine [Book]Epidemiological characteristics, safety and efficacy of medical cannabis in the elderly [Survey]The Impact of Medical Cannabis on Intermittent and Chronic Opioid Users with Back Pain: How Cannabis Diminished Prescription Opioid UsageNSAIDs and gastrointestinal complications: new clinical challengesCardiovascular effects and safety of (non-aspirin) NSAIDsCannabis-Responsive Biomarkers: A Pharmacometabolomics-Based Application to Evaluate the Impact of Medical Cannabis Treatment on Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Allison Justice, PhD, is Co-owner and manages operations at The Hemp Mine, a 40-acre hemp farm that manufactures consumer-ready products. The Hemp Mine currently produces a wide array of different products ranging from smokeable flower to tinctures of different concentrations for both humans and animals. The Hemp Mine breeds, regional trials indoors and outdoors at scale in order to offer validated hemp genetics to the hemp market in the form of stage III tissue culture, unrooted cuttings and rooted cuttings (liners), clones.
Topics discussed include:
How the hemp boom that occurred after the 2018 Farm Bill helped and harmed farmers Research that universities are doing with regards to photoperiod, drying and curing, and more How understanding a plant’s specific photoperiod can be used to maximize yield Using supplemental light outdoors to prevent flowering in semi-auto-flower varieties The importance of selecting hemp varieties that suit a regional climateHow Hemp Mine’s Field Day event helps educate new hemp farmers
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: 10Buds
A site dedicated to all things cannabis, with a special focus on growing and cultivation, 10Buds is packed with fascinating and informative articles, resources, and reviews. Cannabis growers, enthusiasts, and industry professionals alike can explore in-depth looks at everything from considerations for cannabis business owners to the evolution of marijuana’s place in society, its health benefits, and so much more.
Visit 10Buds.com to learn more
Additional Resources
The Hemp Mine websiteThe Hemp Mine: YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn Email: allison@thehempmine.com[Blog] How supplemental lighting can be used for outdoor cannabis cultivation Hemp Mine Field Days
Amy Simpson and BigMike Straumietis talk about Humanity Heroes, a charity that is providing essential living supplies to the homeless community living on the streets and in shelters across America. BigMike, who you likely know as the CEO of Advanced Nutrients, founded Humanity Heroes with the idea that “if a company has the financial resources, then it has a social responsibility to help humanity as a whole.” Amy is the Fundraising Manager at Humanity Heroes, organizing all the events the team puts on each year,
We discuss:
The origins of Humanity Heroes The growing homeless population in the United States and Los Angeles specifically How cannabis medicine and the cannabis industry can potentially help the homeless population How Humanity Heroes has expanded to help the cannabis community, especially those affected by natural disasters Future goals for the organization and more
Thanks to this Episode's Sponsor: CannMed Giving Back
Medicinal Genomics believes in the power of education to inspire science, community, and hope. So we decided to give back with a chance to win a free ticket to the CannMed Medical Practicum, on May 3, 2022 in Pasadena.
Go to our Giving Back webpage, to register and read the full contest rules.
Additional Resources
Join Humanity Heroes CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board (Facebook Group)Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dedi Meiri, PhD runs a lab at the Technion Israel Institute of Technology that investigates the anti-tumor effects of cannabinoids. More specifically, his team identifies which combination of cannabinoids can kill cancer cells. Most notably, his team identified three specific cannabinoids that kill leukemia cells and that formulation is currently being tested in a clinical trial in Israel.
Dr. Meiri is a three-time CannMed presenter. Most recently he delivered a one-hour keynote presentation at CannMed 2019 where he talks about the work going on in his lab. I highly recommend watching that, and all of Dedi’s presentations. Not only is the information fascinating, but Dedi has a very engaging presentation style.
Topics discussed include:
The fact that Dedi entered cannabis medicine research skeptical of its therapeutic potential and understanding the mechanism of action of the endocannabinoid system made him a believer How he uses his own experience to convince skeptical physicians and non-physiciansThe database that his team created that tracks all the active compounds in medical cannabis products available in Israel as well as which products are effectively treating the patients’ conditions How this unique database allows Dedi’s team to identify which products and compounds they want to study in more detail How the diversity of cannabis chemotypes and the diversity of cancer types makes it nearly impossible for patients to select the right strain for the right type of cancer given what we know now Whether synthetic biology will be used to produce minor cannabinoids at scale The two broad classifications for cannabis medicine: general wellness with whole plant extracts and targeted treatments with individual compounds
Thanks for This Episodes's Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients
Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community, and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries.
Learn more at advancednutrients.com
Additional Resources
Dr. Meiri's CannMed presentations: 2017 | 2018 | 2019Cannasoul AnalyticsTechnion Israeli Institute of Technology
Collin Palmer is the Chief Experience Officer at Vessel Life Science. He has been obsessed with growing cannabis since he started growing in his backyard at 15 years old. Since then he has consulted with many cannabis companies in a variety of areas including genetic selection, lab optimization, product development, branding, and more. Over the past several years he has worked on bringing that experience to Vessel Life Science, which has been focused on working with several brands to bring new solvent-less products to market in 2022.
During our conversation we cover:
Collin’s journey in the cannabis industry starting with his first plants to his current projectsThe education and mentorship he received from cannabis cultivation pioneers How regulations create barriers for legacy growers to participate in the current cannabis industry How business pressures stifle innovation from commercial cultivators and encourage copycat tacticsWhy THC and CBD values alone do a poor job of describing cannabis products The fact that how and when cannabis is harvested, cured, and dried can influence taste and experience for the user Why plant pathogens seem to be more prevalent now than ever beforeHow plant pathogens, particularly Hop Latent Viroid can destroy a cultivation business Subtle cues that HLVd infected plants can show and more
Thank you to this Episode's Sponsor PhenoXpress
PhenoXpress offers low-cost genetic testing services to cultivation facilities. Using qPCR technology, PhenoXpress helps cultivators identify genetic traits, such as plant sex, while plants are still in the seedling tray. They can also identify plant pathogens, such as Hop Latent Viroid, Lettuce Chlorosis Virus, and Powdery Mildew before plants show obvious signs of infection. Contact PhenoXpress today so they can help you predict, prevent, and eliminate major crop problems before they happen.
To learn more about how you can accelerate your phenohunt with PhenoXpress go to phenoxpress.com.
Additional Resources
Vessel Life ScienceHop Latent Viroid - A 256 base pair piece of RNA is a Billion dollar hit to the Cannabis IndustrySorry, but high-THC flower is overrated.CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board (Facebook Group)Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Michael Levinsohn is a criminal and civil defense attorney with 20 years of experience representing people in all areas of the cannabis industry, including patients, cultivators, retailers, and healthcare providers. We catch up on new developments in cannabis law since last we spoke, including
Ryan’s Law, which requires California hospitals providing palliative care allow terminally ill patients to use cannabis The likely reason Ryan’s Law is restricted to terminally ill patients and what hospitals and providers will have to do to accommodate this new requirementThe possibility that other states will follow California’s lead and enact requirements that are similar to Ryan’s Law Restrictions that prevent healthcare providers from recommending, developing, and endorsing cannabis-based therapeutics The likelihood that the MORE Act, which is a federal legalization bill, will become law What a more realistic federal legalization path looks like
Mr. Levinsohn will get into each of these issues and more at CannMed 2022 where he will be giving an oral presentation “The Legal Obligations of Cannabis Doctors and The Role of The Law in Cannabis Medicine“. So if you are a physician, nurse, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or any type of healthcare provider interested in recommending cannabis to your patients, you should definitely take his advice to heart. He works with a lot of the top cannabis clinicians including our dear friend Dr. Bonni Goldstein.
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Cannabis Center of Excellence
The Virtual Cannabis Center of Excellence, INC. (CCOE, INC.) is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization that conducts citizen-science focused population studies and programs in the areas of community engagement, medical cannabis, adult-use cannabis, and social justice in the cannabis industry. The group is currently conducting a survey of healthcare providers' knowledge attitudes and practices related to medical cannabis. If you are a healthcare provider, please take this 12-minute survey to help us better understand your experiences with medical cannabis, prior education around the topic, and interest in future clinical education related to medical cannabis.
To learn more and to take the survey, go to https://www.cannacenterofexcellence.org/hcpmedcannstudy.html
Additional Resources
SB-305 Compassionate Access to Medical Cannabis Act or Ryan’s LawH.R.3617 - MORE Act of 2021Coffee Talk 11 with Michael Levinsohn
David Joly, PhD is Associate Professor at the University of Moncton, where his team investigates cannabis and cannabinoids. Dr. Joly has unique expertise in the field of plant cannabis genomics and their associated microbes, and his work has been cited more than 1000 times.
Earlier this year, Dr. Joly published a paper titled “Genome-wide characterization of the MLO gene family in Cannabis sativa reveals two genes as strong candidates for powdery mildew susceptibility”. It’s an important paper when it comes to breeding powdery mildew resistant cannabis plants. As we discuss PM is as common as it is destructive, and it torments all cannabis growers, from the hobbyist home growers to the large-scale commercial operators.
In our conversation we discuss:
How PM infects cannabis plants and how environmental conditions play a roleThe prevention and remediation options cannabis cultivators currently have The difference between PM resistance and PM susceptibility and how variations both can affect the severity of infection How breeding out PM susceptibility genes provides more robust protection than breeding in PM resistance genesWhat are MLO genes and how do they affect PM susceptibility How MLO genes were used to breed our PM susceptibility in other crops The importance of having a quality reference genome to investigate genes of interest. and more
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Kannapedia
Kanapedia.net is the world’s most comprehensive cannabis genomic library, and a recent update has made it easier than ever for customers and researchers to explore Kannapedia’s database of more than 1400 cannabis to make smarter breeding decisions and demonstrate novel genetics.
Kannapedia.net now has a number of new features to help explore your cannabis cultivars' genomic data.
Improved Search and Filtering make it easy to identify cultivars of interest within the Kannapedia database.New Visualizations and Variant Tables highlight high-impact variants in genes of interest, including the MLO genes cited in Dr. Joly’s paper. Responsive design means you can view your reports on any screen type.Private Reports allow you to keep sensitive data hidden.
Visit Kannapedia.net to learn more.
Additional Resources
Genome-wide characterization of the MLO gene family in Cannabis sativa reveals two genes as strong candidates for powdery mildew susceptibilityDr. Joly's Twitter CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board (Facebook Group)Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
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View the Transcript
Good afternoon, David. Thanks for joining us. Thank you. All right, so you and your team recently published a pretty important paper on powdery mildew susceptibility, which we are going to get into. But first, I wanted to lay some groundwork. Our audience here on the podcast, includes people from all facets of the cannabis industry, and not
everyone's going to be intimately familiar with PM. So let's start by outlining the powdery mildew problem. So I was wondering if you could explain why is powdery mildew a threat to cannabis cultivation and really what is at stake here?
Yeah, well, first of all, I would say that powdery mildew is a threat because it's very common. First of all, so it's not something rare that people are likely not to expect. So it certainly will happen at some point.
So it's very common and it can spread very quickly. So when once a crop is infected, so usually the recovery options are often limited. So we don't want growers, of course, to use those nasty fungicide that we see some time on other crops.
Evelyn Alvarez is currently the Quality Assurance Director at Encore Labs. She has ten years of experience working on analytical instrumentation and in regulated lab environments including work on EPA and OSHA methods. She received a degree in Environmental Science with research experience on pesticides.
Evelyn was recently quoted in a Refinery29 article that revealed an unfortunate element of the unregulated Delta-8 THC market. That being that some Delta-8 THC producers will falsify lab results, also known as certificates of analysis, (COAs) they post online.
We cover that topic and others in our discussion, including:
How COAs differ from state-mandated compliance tests How the lack of regulatory oversight of Delta-8 THC products puts consumers at risk Red flags consumers can look for when reviewing COAs The recent increase in Delta-8 THC products How the process of synthesizing Delta-8 THC from hemp may introduce contaminants that most labs are not testing for and more
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Encore Labs
Encore Labs is the premier cannabis testing facility licensed in California with an ISO/IEC 17025 certification. They offer state-wide comprehensive analysis to cultivators, infused product manufacturers, distributors, providers and dispensaries not only for regulatory purposes but also to characterize the unique aspects of your cannabis.
Learn more at encore-labs.com
Additional Resources
Encore Labs websiteI Took A Delta-8 Gummy Before Going On A Run. Things Got Weird — Really Weird (Refinery29 Article)CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board (Facebook Group)Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
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View the Transcript
Good afternoon, Evelyn, thanks for joining us. Hey, thank you for having me. Very excited to talk about these very important topics for consumers. Yeah, about that. So, you were quoted in a pretty wild article that came out last month on the website Refinery29.
I find the story concerning in a lot of ways. But let's just start, I guess, with the general premise. So, I don't know if you want to kind of explain how you got involved in all of this or if you want to if you want to do that first.
Sure. Yeah. And to some of the concerns that it raises. Yes, so a while back, we got an email to our lab and Molly, the journalist from Refinery29 was reaching out, initially just asking some very straightforward questions about a Delta-8 product that she was going to write a review piece on.
When I started digging into the sample information, I realized that the reports were very clearly fabricated, just completely made up. When I reached back out to her with that information, she was pretty blown away as well. And that just kind of started a good back and forth between her and I, which ended up turning into this great
piece by her. I mean, she really went down the rabbit hole and spoke to many different people in the industry, you know, from researchers to regulators. It turned into being a good highlight for everyone, you know, for consumers, especially in terms of safety.
Yeah, exactly. So. So basically, Molly had taken this Delta-8 THC gummy and had a pretty intense experience. Right? More intense than she was expecting or that was advertised. And so, she went to the website and looked at the COA that was listed there, as many of these products have.
And she looked at it, everything looked good, less than 0.3 THC, no residual solvents, everything looks good. But she goes one step further and actually reaches out to the lab. How? How common is that,
Justin Bueno, PhD is the Scientific Director of Goodness Growth Holdings, Inc. Since joining Goodness Growth Holdings in 2018, Dr. Bueno has published two peer-reviewed articles in the field of cannabis science. One article, published in the Journal of Cannabis Research, described the validation and the science behind the novel TerpSafe packaging system towards the preservation of terpenes in cannabis flower. This article will be the basis of his presentation at CannMed 2022 titled, “The Preservation and Augmentation of Terpenes in Cannabis Inflorescence”.
Our conversation was all about terpenes, including:
How terpenes contribute to cannabis effects and overall quality Why using THC potency as an indicator of quality is short-sighted The difference between terpenes and terpenoids How the terpene profile of cannabis flower can change over time as molecules evaporate The inconsistency of terpene concentrations from flower to flower within the same batch How the new TerpSafe technology is addressing terpene preservation and batch consistency
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: CannaSafe
CannaSafe is a California-based cannabis analytical testing lab paving the way in the industry though research, education, and social equity efforts. Championing safe and effective cannabis, hemp, and CBD for all, one test at a time.
Learn more at csalabs.com
Additional Resources
The preservation and augmentation of volatile terpenes in cannabis inflorescenceTerpSafeGoodness Growth HoldingsSorry, but high-THC flower is (Weedmaps Article) CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board (Facebook Group)Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
John Malanca co-founded United Patients Group (UPG), a trusted resource and leader in medical cannabis information and education for patients, physicians, pharmacists, governments, and organizations, both domestically and internationally. UPG also acts as a virtual hand for patients and their loved ones struggling with chronic and terminal illnesses by helping them navigate through this ever-changing industry.
At CannMed 2021, John will moderate a panel of medical cannabis experts to discuss and answer some of the reasons why cannabis is essential to wellness, yet not a one size fits all medicine.
You will hear the powerful story that brought medical cannabis into John’s family’s life, as we explore the challenges patients face when beginning cannabis treatment. We discuss:
How the cannabis medicine landscape has changed over the last 10 yearsThe fact that cannabis medicine is not a one-size-fits-all medicine, and treatment needs to be personalized to each patientThe limited guidance many patients receive from medical providers when it comes to cannabis medicinesThe limited education most healthcare providers have on the endocannabinoid systemHow patients can navigate the growing number of cannabis productsand more
Thank You to This Episode's Sponsor: The Cannigma
The Cannigma is a cannabis education site that's committed to making sure scientific information about cannabis is accessible to anyone who needs it – be it to relieve their own suffering or that of a loved one, to learn a bit more, or even just for fun. The site takes an evidence-based approach to every issue surrounding cannabis – from safety to cooking to medical research – and makes all of that information digestible and useful.
Learn more at cannigma.com.
Additional Resources
United Patients GroupCannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board (Facebook Group)Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Dr. Jeffrey Raber is CEO of the Werc Shop, an independent testing lab established in 2010. Dr. Raber is trained as an organic chemistry scientist, but he is also a serial entrepreneur, patent inventor, and executive, with over a decade of experience in cannabis testing.
At CannMed 2018, Dr. Raber presented “Cannabis Compositions Viewed Through Molecular Glasses” which you can view on our CannMed Archive page. At CannMed 2021, Dr. Raber will present “Thermal Degradation: A Fly in the Cannabis Vapor Ointment” which explores how the act of heating cannabis oils for vaping can alter certain molecules and how that information can be applied to testing regulations.
We discuss:
What we have learned from the 2019 vaping crisis and how are those lessons being applied What additives pose a threat to vape users The lasting appeal of vaping products in terms of convenience and consistency How inconsistencies in vaping hardware plays a role How cannabis vape products differ from nicotine products The challenges and limitations of testing equipment and methods Signs consumers can look for when evaluating the safety and quality of vape products
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Agilent Technologies
Whether you manufacture or test cannabis, you face the challenge of delivering high-quality products, increasing sample volume, and meeting emerging regulations. Agilent offers best-in-class cannabis and hemp analysis solutions featuring robust instruments, software, services, and consumables. Our team of experts can develop, implement, and optimize methods to get you up and running quickly.
Learn more at Agilent.com
Additional Resources
The Werc Shop WebsiteCannMed ArchiveCannMed 2021 ScheduleCannMed Community Board (Facebook Group)Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
BigMike Straumieitis is the Since 1983, BigMike Straumieitis has worked tirelessly to find new ways to bring cannabis to its true genetic potential—legally and illegally. He’s overseen the cultivation of over a million pot plants over the course of his career. in 1999, BigMike founded Advanced Nutrients, the first fertilizer company with products specifically designed for cannabis plants. Today, Advanced Nutrients is the #1 selling hydroponic nutrient company and the cannabis industry's most profitable company.
BigMike and Advanced Nutrients are long-time supporters of CannMed, dating back to our very first event in 2016 at Harvard Medical School. We are excited to have Advanced Nutrients as a CannMed 2021 Partner, providing guidance and assistance on planning our Cultivation Focus Area.
We discuss:
How BigMike got started in the cannabis black market and transitioned to a legitimate force in the legal industry How nutrient requirements for cannabis are different from other flowering plants The difference between primary and secondary nutrients and how they help improve cannabis yield How nutrient requirements change according to growth media and environment Common mistakes homegrowers make A major announcement about a new Advanced Nutrients product line
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor, Advanced Nutrients
Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community, and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries. Their most recent innovation, Advanced Hemp, is the first all-in-one fertilizer that is backed by 20 years of science and specifically formulated to assist growers who are looking to yield higher CBD counts.
For more information, visit www.advancednutrients.com.
Additional Resources
Advanced Nutrients Grower SupportHumanity Heroes CannMed ArchiveCannMed 2021 ScheduleCannMed Community Board (Facebook Group)Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Kevin McKernan is Chief Scientific Officer at Medicinal Genomics. Kevin is back to talk about Psilocybin and the mushrooms that create it. Kevin and the team at MGC have published a highly contiguous reference genome for Psilocybe cubensis, which some listeners may know is the species of mushroom often referred to as the magic mushroom.
Kevin and the team have also sequenced several different mushroom strains to try and better understand genes of interest and pathways responsible for Psilocybin.
If you are new to Psilocybin and mushrooms, don’t worry we cover the basics as well as new findings in our conversation, including:
Potential therapeutic applications for PsilocybinWhat is fueling the rapidly growing interest Psilocybin Psilocybin’s path towards legalization Other psychoactive compounds found in mushrooms How mushrooms are cultivated and bred and what that means for applying genomics The discovery that there is more than one way mushrooms synthesize Psilocybinand more
Thanks to this Episode's Sponsor The Future of Psychedelic Medicine
The Future of Psychedelic Medicine campaign highlights the R&D and innovations currently taking place within the psychedelic space to raise awareness of how psychedelic medicine could transform mental health treatment. The campaign also aims to highlight the potential psychedelic medicine has to help with a range of mental health conditions including depression, addiction, anxiety, PTSD, abuse disorders, OCD and address the stigma surrounding this type of treatment.
Read it on July 22nd in New Scientist magazine and on healthawareness.co.uk.
Additional Resources
A draft reference assembly of the Psilocybe cubensis genomeA whole genome atlas of 81 Psilocybe genomes as a resource for psilocybin production.Fungi video
William Vizuete, PhD is Chief Scientific Officer for Byers Scientific where he analyzes cannabis and hemp plant emissions and helps to develop state-of-the-art odor and emission mitigation solutions and equipment.
For the past six years, Dr. Vizuete has led a team of cannabis industry experts focused on site-specific research to increase overall knowledge of cannabis industry emissions, educate local communities, and improve the tools and methods that cultivators and policymakers use to evaluate the environmental impacts of cannabis cultivation and processing. Dr. Vizuete is perhaps best known for his ground-breaking research into cannabis emissions and air quality in Denver, Colorado. During that study, supported by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, as well as the National Center for Atmospheric Research, Dr. Vizuete began creating a first-of-its-kind cannabis terpene library. More recently, Dr. Vizuete designed and oversaw a pioneering cannabis emissions research project in Santa Barbara County, California.
Dr. Vizuete will participate in the expert panel "The Hidden Cost of Cannabis: Environmental Impact" at CannMed 2021.
Topics we discuss in the conversation include:
How emissions from cannabis and hemp plants affect air quality and ozone The difference between BVOCs and AVOSs How the type and concentration of emissions from cannabis plants can vary widely from strain to strain Why cannabis cultivators should be concerned with controlling odors from their facilities Whether terpenes emitted from cannabis plants can taint neighboring wine grapes Strategies cultivators can use to mitigate odors and emissions from their facilities
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: 10Buds
A site dedicated to all things cannabis, with a special focus on growing and cultivation, 10Buds is packed with fascinating and informative articles, resources, and reviews. Cannabis growers, enthusiasts, and industry professionals alike can explore in-depth looks at everything from considerations for cannabis business owners to the evolution of marijuana’s place in society, its health benefits, and so much more.
Visit 10Buds.com to learn more
Additional Resources
Potential regional air quality impacts of cannabis cultivation facilities in Denver, ColoradoByers Scientific, Iowa State University and Odor Experts Identify Volatile Chemical Compound Responsible for Cannabis Odor ComplaintsByers Scientific websiteJazz Incognito Radio Show (hosted by William Vizuete)
Dr. Michelle Shuffett is an accomplished healthcare executive, marketing strategist, speaker, and wellness enthusiast with 20+ years of experience encompassing a unique blend of clinical medicine, communications, and leadership. Much of her recent work has been in the cannabis industry, highlighting the potential health benefits of cannabis and CBD.
She recently joined Radicle Science as a founding team member and Chief Growth Officer. At its core, Radicle is a Rebellion against the status quo of healthcare and research and a movement towards democratized, personalized medicines that have the potential to deliver well-being for all future generations.
As you can expect, with a description like that, we talk a lot about what Radicle is doing to achieve those goals. We also discuss:
Michelle’s journey from practicing physician to cannabis researcher Challenges with traditional clinical research Lack of reliable data on the effectiveness of natural products How Radicle Science recruits participants and collects data Ongoing and upcoming studies Radicle Sciences is conducting
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Cannabis Patient Care Magazine
Cannabis Patient Care magazine is an educational resource for patients, medical professionals, caregivers, and advocates on the latest research, benefits, and treatment options medical cannabis provides for a variety of illnesses.
Visit cannapatientcare.com to learn more.
Additional Resources
Radiclescience.com Radicle Science LinkedIn Page CannMed Community Board (Facebook Group)Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Greg Gerdeman, PhD is a neuroscientist and educator with expertise in the physiological actions of cannabis and the endocannabinoid system. Recently, Greg has gotten involved in the conversation around Delta-8 THC. He comes at the topic from a neuroscientist's perspective questioning how much we know about how Delta-8 THC affects the body and the brain. He also raises important questions about how the compound is created and what that means for consumer safety and the legality of Delta-8 THC products.
We discuss:
What Delta-8 THC is and how it differs from other THC isomers Why there is a sudden influx of Delta-8 THC products How the 2018 Farm Bill opened the door for Delta-8 THC production The process for creating Delta-8 THC from CBD isolate and the risks associated with it Whether Delta-8 THC is produced in the plant, and at what levels What research has been done to understand how Delta-8 THC affects users and more
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Project CBD
Project CBD is a California-based nonprofit dedicated to providing up-to-date news and information on the science, movement, and industry around CBD, medical cannabis, and plant-based medicine. Since its founding in 2010, Project CBD has been a trusted resource for patients, medical professionals, scientists, and like-minded advocates.
Learn more about Project CBD at projectcbd.org
Related Links
The Delta-8 THC Controversy Greg’s Instagram Greg’s Facebook Weir Wellness Tennessee Farmaceuticals CannMed Community Board (Facebook Group) Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study
Alice Moon is a PR and marketing professional who has worked in the cannabis space since 2011. In 2018, Alice was diagnosed with Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, a condition that leads to repeated and severe bouts of vomiting when she consumes cannabinoids. Since being diagnosed with CHS, Alice has ceased cannabis use completely and become an advocate for safe and mindful cannabis consumption, awareness, and research. Her passion for educating on the subject has garnered the attention of RXLeaf, Leafly, Business Insider, and Forbes. In early 2020, Yahoo released a documentary featuring Alice
During our conversation we discussed:
Alice’s experience with CHS What little we know about what causes CHSWhat treatments provide relief from CHS Strategies cannabis users can use to reduce their risk of developing CHS How awareness for CHS has grown since she developed the condition Whether patients who recover from CHS can go back to using cannabis The three stages of CHS and more
Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: American Cannabis Nurses Association.
ACNA is a national nursing organization who’s mission is advance excellence in cannabis nursing practice through advocacy, collaboration, education, research, and policy development. Founded in 2010, ACNA is now in its 11th year with almost 1700 members in the United States. We continue to work on providing our members with up to date cannabis information and resources to care for patients who use cannabis. Join them today at www.cannabisnurses.org and be a part of the change.
Additional Resources
Unraveling the Mystery of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome - CannMed 2019 Medical Panel cannabinoid-hyperemesis.com@thealicemoon@cannabinoid.hyperemesis alicemoon.la
Dr. Debra Kimless is the CMO of Pure Green Pharmaceuticals, where she oversees clinical medical testing, patient and physician educational programs, and medical product development. Deb and her team recently published an open-label clinical trial for treating diabetic neuropathic pain with a water-soluble CBD tablet.
In our conversation we discuss:
Results from her clinical trial for treating diabetic neuropathic pain with CBDWhat makes diabetic neuropathic pain a good candidate for cannabinoid therapies Comparing the adverse effects of standard DNP treatments to CBD The advantages of delivering cannabinoids via a water-soluble tablet Why there are not more clinical studies into cannabinoid therapies Tools consumers can use to identify proper clinical trials
Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Pure Green Pharmaceuticals
Pure Green Pharmaceuticals manufactures the finest medical products, using selected cannabinoid molecules as primary ingredients. Their goal is to relieve human and animal suffering through the use of purified cannabis.
Learn more at pgpharma.co
Additional Resources
The Effects of Cannabidiol-Based Sublingual Tablets on Diabetic Neuropathic PainAnalgesic Alternative: How Non-intoxicating Cannabinoids Can Relieve Pain - Debra Kimless, MD CannMed 2018Case Presentations of Cancer Patients Treated with Cannabis Oil - Debra Kimless, MD CannMed 2017
Dr. Peter Grinspoon is a primary care physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and an Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He is a Contributing Editor to Harvard Health Publications and the Harvard Health Blog, where he frequently writes about cannabis medicine issues. Dr. Grinspoon also writes about addiction, both from the perspective of a clinician treating the disorder and as someone who is in recovery from opioid addiction. We spoke a lot about how cannabis can be used to treat addiction in our conversation, as well as:
Why Dr. Grinspoon believes all primary care providers should be knowledgeable about medical cannabisHow medical cannabis offers a safer alternative to medications used to treat chronic pain and insomnia How years of anti-cannabis propaganda has tainted the medical cannabis conversationWhy both sides of the cannabis issue need to behave better when discussing the benefits and risks The five ways cannabis can help with the opioid crisis How prescription drug usage tends to drop in legal cannabis statesWhether cannabis itself is addictiveand more
Thanks to our Sponsor: Mace Media Group
MACE Media Group is hosting The Original CBD Expo Midwest 2021, an in-person event will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 9-10.
The event will feature exhibits from end-product producers, equipment manufacturers, and ancillary businesses including financial and legal service providers. In addition, the expo will offer unique cannabinoid education seminars from leading cannabis and cannabinoid PhDs, physicians, scientists, researchers, and industry pioneers.
The expo is open to anyone who may be interested, from entrepreneurs and professionals to curious consumers. Join CBD Expo Tour and explore the latest and most innovative advancements in CBD.
To attend this year’s event or learn more, visit us online at cbdexpo.net.
Additional Resources
Peter Grinspoon, MD on Twitterpetergrinspoon.com Peter Grinspoon, MD, Author at Harvard Health Blog
We discuss dosing medical cannabis with Dr. Dustin Sulak. Dustin is an osteopathic general practitioner who focuses on treating patients with refractory conditions using an individualized, health-centered approach. Dr. Sulak is a founder of Integr8 Health, a medical practice in Maine that follows over 8,000 patients using medical cannabis, and cofounder of Healer.com, a medical cannabis education resource. Dustin has also participated in every CannMed Event since our first event in 2016. He serves on our CannMed Advisory Board, evaluating abstracts and helping select presenters, and he is an instructor on our full-day CannMed Medical Practicum.
Topics discussed include:
Why dosing medical cannabis is different from other therapeutics The fact that cannabinoids can have biphasic and even triphasic effects How a patient's optimal dose can change over time, commonly going downHow patients commonly build a tolerance to the adverse effects of cannabis but not the benefits The benefits of working with a trained medical provider to determine one's optimal dose, but also strategies for how patients can find it on their ownHow can cannabis be used for health promotion and disease prevention How using a variety of cannabis cultivars and not sticking to just one strain can be beneficial for patients
Thanks to our Sponsor: Cannabis Patient Care magazine
Cannabis Patient Care magazine is an educational resource for patients, medical professionals, caregivers, and advocates on the latest research, benefits, and treatment options medical cannabis provides for a variety of illnesses. They are excited to announce that their March issue will be coming out next week with a focus on chronic pain. The issue features content from industry thought-leaders in medical cannabis, including Brendan McKernan, CEO of Medicinal Genomics, Eloise Theisen, board-certified Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, president of the American Cannabis Nurses Association, and a medical leader of this year's CannMed Medical Practicum, and many others.
Visit cannapatientcare.com to learn more.
Additional Resources
Handbook of Cannabis Clinicians Society of Cannabis Clinicians Healer.com Dosage ProgramCannMed 2019 Presentation - The Role of Cannabis in Integrative Medicine, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention - Dustin Sulak, DO
We discuss the chemistry of cannabis with Markus Roggen, PhD. In his various roles and positions, Dr. Roggen oversaw multiple teams that are focused on the whole processing flow of cannabis production, from harvest and drying, through processing and extraction, all the way to the formulation and quality control/analytics. In addition to cannabinoids, Dr. Roggen's company, Complex Biotech Discovery Ventures (CBDV), is also investigating psilocybin.
Topics discussed include:
The number of compounds that have been identified in the cannabis plant, and whether there are more to be foundThe complexity of cannabis compared to other plants and herbsThe challenges with the entourage effect. Could there be an invisible compound that is responsible for certain therapeutic effects?How different storage conditions and extraction techniques will yield different chemical compounds Why the term "whole-plant extract" is a misnomer The potential uses for psilocybin, and how it compares to cannabis
Thanks to Our Sponsor: CANN
Since 2015, CANN has been building a strong network of scientists in the cannabis space to promote scientific innovation, safety, and development through education, research, and the empowerment of the scientific community. To learn more about what CANN has to offer please visit their website at www.cann-acs.org.
Additional Resources
Complex Biotech Discovery Ventures (CBDV) website Collaborative Research into Cannabis Delivery Techniques and Fundamental Product Makeup | CannMed 2019 presentation
We talk with Dr. Andrew Horwitz Vice President, R&D at Sestina Bio LLC about producing cannabinoids outside the cannabis plant. Previously, Andrew managed the Cannabinoid R&D program at Demetrix, where he helped develop the process for using genetically modified yeast cells to produce cannabinoids. We discuss:
The advantages of using yeast cells to produce cannabinoids instead of cannabis and hemp plants How adjusting the precursor molecules that are fed to the yeast cells can produce rare and novel cannabinoidsHow cannabis medicine researchers can use this technology to better understand the entourage effectWhy understanding the way the cannabis plant produces cannabinoids was essential to developing this technology How this technology is received by the cannabis community
Thanks to our Sponsor: Demetrix
Demetrix is a biotechnology company that believes in the power of science to make the world a better place. The company produces safe, legal, and effective health and wellness products backed by science, including rare, high-purity cannabinoids for pharmaceutical and consumer applications.
To learn more, please visit www.demetrixbio.com, and be sure to check out their blog, www.demetrixbio.com/insights.
Additional Resources
"Developing Fermentation Technology to Produce Specific Cannabinoids for Research and Consumer Use" Andrew Horwitz, PhD, CannMed 2019Sestina Bio, LLC website Demetrix blog Luo, Xiaozhou et al. “Complete biosynthesis of cannabinoids and their unnatural analogues in yeast.” Inscripta Onyx
In this episode, we talk with Dr. Van Butsic, the Co-director of the Berkeley Cannabis Research Center and Cooperative Extension Specialist at UC Berkeley. The Cannabis Research Center uses an interdisciplinary approach to address questions at the intersection of cannabis policy, the environment, and cannabis-producing communities.
At CannMed 2021, Van will participate in a panel discussion about the environmental impacts of cannabis production. In our conversation, we discuss:
Why it's important to better understand how cannabis cultivation affects the environmentHow cannabis compares to other crops in terms of its environmental impactHow outdoor cannabis cultivation affects rivers and streamsThe challenge of collecting data on unpermitted cannabis farmsHow easing the permit and licensure requirements for farmers could lead to better environmental outcomes
Thanks to our Sponsor: Colorado Seed, Inc.
Colorado Seed Inc. is a Cannabis genetics company based out of Boulder, CO. They are innovators of Cannabis cultivation and breeding techniques, and have been locally producing licensed Cannabis seeds since 2008. Specializing in high-potency, unique breeding lines suitable for both home and commercial grows. Learn more at coloradoseedinc.com.
Additional Resources
Berkley Cannabis Research Center Website Berkley Cannabis Research Center Science Briefs
Our latest guest is Professor Raphael Mechoulam. Professor Mechoulam is the first researcher to isolate THC and CBD. For that achievement and the decades of research into the endocannabinoid system that followed, Professor Mechoulam is often called the "Godfather of cannabis research".
Since his research began in the 1960s, Professor Mechoulam has received numerous academic awards. Most recently he received The Harvey Prize from the Technion Israel Institute of Technology in the Human Health category. It’s a pretty big deal when you consider more than 30% of Harvey laureates since 1986 have gone onto receive the Nobel prize.
Professor Mechoulam has presented at every CannMed event, either in person or via submitted video, and is the chair of our Scientific Advisory Board.
In our conversation, we discuss:
Professor Mechoulam’s incredible career The disappointing lack of cannabis medicine clinical trials The surprising fact that the two major endogenous cannabinoids (anandamide and 2AG) have never been administered to humans The challenge of researching the entourage effect The benefits of cannabinoid acids The newly discovered anandamide-like compounds that could be used to treat addiction And more
Thanks to our Sponsor: Cannabis Science and Technology
Cannabis Science and Technology focuses on educating the legal cannabis industry about the science and technology of analytical testing, quality control/assurance, extraction, cultivation, and processing/manufacturing. In October Cannabis Science & Technology launched a new brand, Cannabis Patient Care, which is an educational resource for patients, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and caregivers on the latest research, benefits, and treatment options cannabis provides for a variety of illnesses.
Learn more at cannabissciencetech.com
Additional Resources
Professor Mechoulam's CannMed presentations: 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019Isolation and structure of a brain constituent that binds to the cannabinoid receptor The chemistry of endocannabinoids An entourage effect: inactive endogenous fatty acid glycerol esters enhance 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol cannabinoid activity
This episode’s guest is Hope Jones. She is the CEO of Superior Phenos, LLC, a hemp young plant production company in Arizona and CEO of Emergent Cannabis Sciences, an international cannabis and micropropagation consulting company with clients in Colombia, Australia, Germany and Canada.
Dr. Jones has deep expertise in both hemp and cannabis often serving as an expert consultant on forming policy at the state and federal levels. NASA also tapped her micropropogation expertise to develop programs for growing plants on deep space missions.
In our conversation, we talked a lot about tissue culture, as Dr. Jones will be leading a panel on the topic at CannMed 2021. We covered:
How cultivators use tissue culture to remediate plants that are infected with pathogens such as powdery mildew and Hop Latent Viroid How the COVID 19 pandemic has made Hope’s conversations with cultivators about plant virus and pathogen infections easierHow tissue culture can produce changes to the plant’s DNA Why alcohol is not an effective anti-viral solution for plantsHow cryogenic storage of tissue cultured mother plants can be used as an insurance policy against pathogen infection or other disasters
Thanks to our Sponsor Medicinal Genomics
Medicinal Genomics uses its unmatched knowledge into the cannabis genome and the microbes that impact cannabis plants to create a diverse set of testing solutions that improve crop yield, accelerate breeding, and ensure product safety.
Many of the top cannabis testing labs trust MGC’s PathoSEEK® Microbial Safety Testing Platform to test for state-mandated microbial targets, making it the industry’s preferred microbial testing method. Now, labs and cultivators can use the new PathoSEEK Cannabis Virus Multiplex Assay to test plants for Hop Latent Viroid, Lettuce Chlorosis Virus, and Cannabis Cryptic Virus in a single PCR reaction.
Also check out The Hemp Coffee Exchange and use the promo code “drinkhemp” to get 10% off your purchase.
Additional Resources:
Emergent Cannabis SciencesArchive of Articles Hope has written for Cannabis Industry JournalCannMed Coffee Talk 17 with Mark Jordan Learn more about HLVd
Our guest in this episode is Dr. Mauro Maccarrone. Mauro is a pioneer in endocannabinoid research. In 1997, his team identified the receptor targets for the first two endocannabinoids that were discovered by Professor Raphael Mechoulam earlier in the decade: anandamide and 2-AG. Since then, the endocannabinoid system has been the focus of his research. At CannMed 2021 he will present "The Complex Endocannabinoid System and the Challenge of Developing Selective Drugs towards its Distinct Elements".
Dr. Maccarrone's understanding of the ECS is exceptional and I really enjoyed picking his brain on some of the topics that have come up in conversations with other podcast guests.
Topics discussed include:
The technical challenges that prevented researchers from understanding the endocannabinoid system until the early 90sHow the discovery of the endocannabinoid system changed medical research and drug development The difference between endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids The large number of enzymes involved in synthesizing and cleaving each endocannabinoid and how blocking or enhancing those enzymes can affect the concentration of endocannabinoids in a person’s bodyHow endocannabinoids work together to create an entourage effect How an increased level of endocannabinoids can help you forget a painful experience like childbirth or a difficult run. Why researchers need to agree on a standardized formulation of cannabinoids to use for research
Thanks to our Sponsor: Cannabis Science and Technology
Cannabis Science and Technology focuses on educating the legal cannabis industry about the science and technology of analytical testing, quality control/assurance, extraction, cultivation, and processing/manufacturing. In October Cannabis Science & Technology launched a new brand, Cannabis Patient Care, which is an educational resource for patients, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and caregivers on the latest research, benefits, and treatment options cannabis provides for a variety of illnesses.
Also check out The Hemp Coffee Exchange and use the promo code “drinkhemp” to get 10% off your purchase.
Additional Resources:
CannMed Community Facebook GroupEndocannabinoid signaling at the periphery: 50 years after THCPubMed archive of publications featuring Dr. Maccarrone
Our guest this week is Dr. Staci Gruber, Director of the Cognitive and Clinical Neuroimaging Core at McLean Hospital’s Brain Imaging Center and an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Gruber has spent decades investigating how both recreational and medical cannabis use affects the brain. In 2014, Dr. Gruber launched Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND), the first-ever program of its kind designed to clarify the specific effects of medical cannabis use.
What she and her team have found is that not only do medical cannabis patients tend to perform better on cognitive tests when compared to recreational users, but medical cannabis patients tend to outperform themselves when compared to tests administered before they started treatment.
Staci and explores why this is the case in the podcast, as well as results from MIND’s double-blind, placebo-controlled CBD clinical trial for anxiety, which used a high-CBD whole-plant extract. Interesting observations from the study include:
Patients' performance on cognitive tests improved after starting treatmentPatients reported using smaller doses of the whole-plant extract than patients in trials using single-compound therapeuticsSome patients still tested positive for THC despite the fact that the hemp-derived extract contained less than .3mg/mL of THC.
Thanks to our Sponsor: Healer
Healer is a trusted, physician-developed medical cannabis brand founded to address the challenges of helping patients and health providers get the best results with safe, reliably dosable products and education on how to best use them. Healer’s distinctive product formulations and educational material are based on the work of leading cannabis clinician, Dr. Dustin Sulak, D.O.
Dr. Sulak's Healer Hemp CBD and CBDA products are available nationwide and are accompanied with a step-by-step usage guide and response tracker. Visit HealerCBD.com and use coupon code CannMed for 20% off your order.
Also check out The Hemp Coffee Exchange and use the promo code “drinkhemp” to get 10% off your purchase.
Additional Resources:
CannMed Community Facebook GroupDrStaciGruber.comIt’s Not Easy Being Green: Assessing the Impact of Medical Marijuana on Cognition, Mood, Brain Function and Related Measures – CannMed 2017 Presentation
On this episode, we talked with tissue culture expert, Mark Jordan. Mark is currently the Chief Executive Officer at Minibis headquartered in Longmont, CO, where he started a tissue culture lab dedicated to Cannabis research and development. His previous positions include work at Colorado Seed Incorporated, Eurofins Biodiagnostics, and the Denver Botanic Gardens. While at the Denver Botanic Gardens Mark worked as the Research Horticulturist, running the protocol creation tissue cultural lab, as well as a breeding program for Scutellaria and Dracocephalum. This experience allowed him to understand the potential for the application of tissue culture for the Cannabis industry and set him on the path he is now.
As you might expect, Mark and I spent a lot of time talking about the tissue culture process. Mark was kind enough to walk me through the basics of process including the four stages of plant tissue culture. We also got into:
How tissue culture propagation differs from clonal propagation How tissue culture can be used to remediate plants infected with pathogens or viruses Germinating seeds in tissue culture Dark rooting in tissue culture and more
Even if you’ve never grown a cannabis plant before, I think you will find this conversation interesting. I know I did.
Thanks to our sponsor Dark Heart Nursery. Visit darkheartnursery.com to learn more.
Also check out The Hemp Coffee Exchange and use the promo code “drinkhemp” to get 10% off your purchase.
Additional Resources:
CannMed Community Facebook GroupCannabis Tissue Culture and Germplasm Storage - CannMed 2019 Presentation
On this episode we welcome Dr. Marion McNabb, President of the Cannabis Center of Excellence INC and CEO of Cannabis Community Care and Research Network (C3RN). Marion is a Public Health Doctor by training that has nearly 20 years of global and domestic public health experience.
Her team recently completed a veterans’ health and medical cannabis research study with the goal of gathering information from U.S. military veterans regarding their current health conditions, conventional medical treatments, medical cannabis use and its effectiveness with self-reported health conditions and symptoms.
We talked a lot about the veteran’s study as well as other public health topics related to medical cannabis, including
How military veterans use cannabis to treat a variety of conditions and reduce dependence on other medicationsWhat barriers veterans face when trying to access medical cannabisWhat programs have been established to assist veterans with the cost of cannabis medicineHow veterans’ use of medical cannabis compares to the general populationHow has the COVID-19 pandemic changed cannabis use in terms of frequency, purchasing habits, and conditionsHow implementing proper testing led to the eventual lift of the vape ban in MassachusettsHow the vote to legalize adult-use cannabis in New Jersey affects the issues of public health, social justice, and advocacy
Thanks to our sponsor, Cannabis Science and Technology. Cannabis Science and Technology is proud to present a special supplement and free virtual Veterans Day e-Symposium focused on medical cannabis treatment for veterans with PTSD. The supplement and symposium will feature Dr. Marion McNabb and the data she uncovered in her 2019 Veterans Health and Medical Cannabis Study. In addition, the supplement will include articles with Dr. Staci Gruber, veteran patient Stephen Mandile, a VA caregiver, a nurse, and medical cannabis advocates all heavily involved with this topic. The e-symposium will also feature a special panel discussion, organized by Stephen Mandile, with a group of veterans from across the country. Learn more at www.cannabissciencetech.com.
Also check out The Hemp Coffee Exchange and use the promo code “drinkhemp” to get 10% off your purchase.
Additional Resources:
2019 Veterans Health and Medical Cannabis Study with UMass Dartmouth2018 Open Cannabis Consumer and Patient Study with UMass DartmouthCOVID-19 Medical Cannabis Patient and Adult-Use Consumer StudyCOVID-19 and Cannabis - Where is the research? (webinar)New Jersey Cannabis Legalization and Social Justice Course New Jersey Cannabis Legalization and Social Justice Research Study (Collecting data until Nov 3. Students present findings Dec 3) Sign Up for Cannabis Center of Excellence Updates
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On this episode we welcome Dr. Kevin Spelman from the National University of Natural Medicine. Kevin has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to medicinal plant, nutraceutical, and cannabinoid research and has authored 29 peer-reviewed publications on medicinal plants. Over the last 30 years, he has coordinated new product development, formulated product lines, advised on analytical and QC guidelines, research activity and educational curriculums for industry and universities.
Dr. Spelman will share his knowledge and expertise as an instructor for our CannMed Medical Practicum, taking place Monday, April 12th. After that eight-hour course, attendees will walk away with practical information about clinical applications, dosing strategies, potential drug interactions, special considerations for geriatric and pediatric patients, and more.
Kevin also shared a lot of his knowledge with me in our conversation. Topics we hit on include:
How the entourage effect includes more than just cannabinoids and terpenesHow plant-based medicines differ from single-molecule pharmaceuticals How plants use terpenes to communicate with each other How high levels of terpenes can be toxic How a plant's responses to environmental stresses can change its medicinal effects How at home extraction techniques compare to commercial processes And much more
Thanks to our sponsor, The American Cannabis Nurses Association. The ACNA is non-profit professional nursing organization that seeks to advance excellence in cannabis nursing practice through advocacy, collaboration, education, research, and policy development. The ACNA is comprised of a network of professional nurses across the country. They are rapidly growing and eagerly welcome more nurses who seek to learn about cannabis therapeutics and integrate it into their practice. The ACNA's annual Cannabis Care Conference is being held virtually December 6-8th, 2020.
Also check out The Hemp Coffee Exchange and use the promo code "drinkhemp" to get 10% off your purchase.
Additional Resources:
The Spelman Report
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This episode’s guest is Jordan Zager, co-founder and CEO of Dewey Scientific. Jordan is an expert in cannabis genetics and natural product biosynthesis, having authored multiple research papers in the fields of trichome development and metabolism, mathematical modeling of biochemical pathways, and functional genomics.
Jordan’s CannMed 2021 presentation is titled "Gene Networks Underlying Cannabinoid and Terpenoid Accumulation in Cannabis" and in it, he will explore the biochemical processes the cannabis plant uses to create cannabinoids and how each cultivar’s unique genetics plays a role.
Topics we covered in the interview include:
The problems cannabis and hemp growers are trying to solve via genetics. How lighting and temperature influences gene expression in cannabis plants and the cannabinoids and terpenes they produce The Potential for minor cannabinoids to become more dominat in future cultivars How just how far behind cannabis genomics research is when compared to other crops
Thanks to our sponsor, The Scientist Magazine. The Scientist is a seriously refreshing source of life-science research news and a forum for in-depth explorations of issues important to both scientists and the science-curious public.
Also check out The Hemp Coffee Exchange and use the promo code "drinkhemp" to get 10% off your purchase.
Additional Resources:
Gene Networks Underlying Cannabinoid and Terpenoid Accumulation in Cannabis - Plant Physiology paperDewey Scientific website
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We are excited to announce CannMed 2021’s Keynote Presenter in the Safety Focus Area is Grace Bandong, Scientific Strategy Leader Contaminants for Eurofins Food Integrity and Innovations.
The title of Ms. Bandong’s presentation is “Risk Based Hazards Analysis: A Tool for Building A Comprehensive Analytical Testing Program,” in which she will explore the vulnerability of products/ingredients to contaminants and present a risk-based process for identifying potential hazards. Her presentation will also include a review of current regulation and requirements for pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents and other contaminants in cannabis and cannabis-derived products.
Ms. Bandong is a sought-after expert, speaker and author on the subject of product safety and risk in the cannabis industry. She is the Scientific Strategy Leader for Contaminants for Eurofins Food Integrity and Innovations and has spent over 25 years in the food and supplement industry specializing in contaminants analysis and risk assessments.
Over the years, Ms. Bandong has developed contaminant testing programs that support supplier verification for food manufacturers and recently, the hemp industry. She has developed a process for a hazards-based chemical risk assessment of ingredients that has been used by companies to respond to global regulatory requirements. She is an expert on the analysis of risk assessments of contaminants in food.
Product safety and quality are obviously a major concern for the cannabis industry. But an area that is often neglected in the development of standards is the definition of specifications for contaminants in general and chemical hazards in particular. The Food Safety Modernization Act of 2011 calls out microbial contamination, as well as the concern for chemical hazards and requires a risk-based hazard analysis for ingredients used in the manufacture of food.
In the cannabis industry, regulations concerning microbial contamination vary from state to state, compounding the issue of insuring quality control for cannabis products. But what’s worse is that regulations regarding pesticide use and other chemical contaminants are seriously lacking. Ms. Bandong’s position is that adapting regulatory practices from the food industry to the cannabis industry would be highly beneficial. And here’s where a risk-based analysis model could prove to be worthwhile.
Chemical contaminants can cause serious damage to customer’s health and have major effects on a business. But it’s often not realistic to test every lot of an ingredient for every chemical contaminant. A risk analysis model would be able to identify and weigh risk for various ingredients resulting in a better understanding of the product, from the ground to the shelf, and allowing for a balanced allocation of resources for monitoring ingredients as well as final products.
Ms. Bandong is in an ideal to affect the adoption of such recommendations. She is an active member of AOAC and is currently on the Executive Board of the AOAC Pacific Southwest section. She is also on the Technical Committee of the US Hemp Authority and a member of the HIA’s Sampling and Analytical Task Force.
She received her B.S. in Chemistry from the University of the Philippines and her M.S. in Chemistry from the University of Houston.
We are looking forward to her keynote presentation at CannMed 2021 and enjoyed having her as a guest on the CannMed Coffee Talk Podcast. Click the player below to listen!
This episode’s guest is plant pathology expert Zamir Punja, PhD of Simon Fraser University's Department of Biological Sciences. Zamir’s research investigates the causes and management of plant diseases on cannabis, including fusarium, penicillium, powdery mildew, botrytis, as well as new and emerging plant pathogens. His CannMed 2018 presentation featured several amazing images Zamir’s team captured using an electron microscope. The image of powdery mildew mycelia wrapped around a cannabis trichome is one I won’t soon forget. Beside to check out the link to that video below.
In addition to his work on plant diseases, Zamir’s team has used their electron microscope to investigate the structure of cannabis trichomes, and will present those findings at CannMed 2021. I expect we will see even more amazing images during that presentation. In fact, Zamir gave us a few as a preview. Check out the Additional Resources section below to see them.
Topics discussed on the podcast include:
How diseases infect and affect cannabis plants Which cultivation methods are more prone to infection How to breed for pathogen resistance Which pathogens pose a risk to consumers How each of the four observed cannabis trichome structures differs and what each might be responsible for
Thanks to our sponsor, The Growers Network, and please check out their Canna Cribs series, your behind-the-scenes look at some of the most sophisticated, technologically advanced grows in the world. Also check out The Hemp Coffee Exchange and use the promo code "drinkhemp" to get 10% off your purchase.
Additional Resources:
Close up trichome photographs: Image 1, Image 2 Epidemiology of Fusarium.oxysporum causing root and crown rot of cannabis (Cannabis.sativa L., marijuana) plants in commercial greenhouse production First report of Fusarium.proliferatum causing crown and stem rot, and pith necrosis, in cannabis (Cannabis sativa L., marijuana) plantsEmerging Diseases of Cannabis Sativa and Approaches to Management - Zamir Punja, Ph.D - CannMed 2018 Presentation
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This episode’s guest is Michael Levinsohn. Michael is a criminal and civil defense attorney with 20 years of experience representing people in all areas of the cannabis business. On the podcast, we discuss the legal aspects of practicing cannabis medicine, including:
The need for more clinicians who are educated in cannabis medicine to help guide patients and defend them should they run into legal trouble Specific issues related to treating children with cannabisThe differences between a medical cannabis prescription and a recommendationThe limitations around what products or strains a clinician can recommend to patients How California's Proposition 64 changed the rules around how clinicians can recommend cannabis Some examples of cannabis medicine don'ts
Mr. Levinsohn will get into each of these issues and more at CannMed 2021 where he will be giving an oral presentation "The Legal Obligations of Cannabis Doctors and The Role of The Law in Cannabis Medicine". So if you are a physician, nurse, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or any type of healthcare provider interested in recommending cannabis to your patients, you should definitely take his advice to heart. He works with a lot of the top cannabis clinicians including our dear friend Dr. Bonni Goldstein.
Click the player below to listen, and thanks to our sponsors, Dr. Bonni Goldstein and The Hemp Coffee Exchange. Pre-order Dr. Goldstein's new book, "Cannabis is Medicine" using one of the links below:
AmazonBarnes & NobleIndieboundiBooks
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On this episode, we talk with Cindy Orser, PhD, the Chief Scientific Officer at CLIP LABS. Dr. Orser has more than 25 years of experience innovating technologies related to cannabis, human diagnostics, and even detecting biothreat agents.
We spent most of the conversation talking about the panel Cindy will moderate at CannMed 2021, titled "The Hidden Cost of Cannabis: Environmental Impact”. In that panel, she and her fellow panelists will explore how current cannabis cultivation practices contribute to air pollution, water pollution, and increased energy consumption and how the federal ban on cannabis is actually worsening those problems.
We also talked about terpenes because Dr. Orser co-authored a really interesting article titled “Making Sense of Cannabis Strains Through Chemometrics in Review”, which demonstrates how terpene profiling can be used to better understand the differences between cannabis cultivars. Dr. Orser also cautions that without terpene testing, consumers are blind to manufacturers that add large, unnatural amounts of terpenes to vape products. To date, there hasn’t been any research into what, if any health risks come with inhaling those compounds in such large concentrations. Perhaps that will be a presentation topic at a future CannMed event!
Click the player below to listen, and thanks to our sponsor, Terpenes and Testing Magazine.
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Additional Resources
CLIP LABSMaking Sense of Cannabis Strains Through Chemometrics in Review
Keith Allen is the Director of Bioinformatics at Front Range Biosciences. Keith is tasked with exploring the cannabis genome to find genetic markers that can be selected in breeding projects. His current focus is on cannabinoid and terpene production, but as we discuss in our conversation, there are a number of different traits cannabis and hemp breeders will want to select for in the future, including yield, drought resistance, pathogen resistance, flowering time, heartiness for the outdoor environment, and more. The opportunity for improving the cannabis plant is only restricted by our understanding of the genome, which Keith readily admits, is still in its infancy.
Keith will be presenting on “Gene Families and Gene Networks Underlying Oil Production in Cannabis Trichomes” at CannMed 2021 this Spring. So please do consider picking up your ticket for the event now.
Click the player below to listen, and thanks to our sponsor, The Growers Network.
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Additional Resources
Front Range Biosciences WebsiteGenomic characterization of the complete terpene synthase gene family from Cannabis sativa
On this episode, we talk with CannMed 2020 presenter Eloise Theisen of Radicle Health. Eloise is a board-certified Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years experience in nursing. She started her own cannabis practice about 6 years ago and she has treated over 6000 patients using cannabis. There are very few healthcare providers nationally with the same level of expertise and experience. Eloise is the President of the American Cannabis Nurses Association and will serve as President through 2022.
Eloise made her first CannMed appearance at our 2019 event in a presentation sharing her experience using Cannabis to treat geriatric patients. We talked about some of the unique challenges that come with working with seniors including the stigma older patients have towards cannabis, how the endocannabinoid system changes as we age, and navigating drug interactions.
We are excited to have Eloise as a presenter at CannMed 2020 this year, but that will not be her only contribution to the event. Eloise will also be an instructor at a full-day Medical Practicum along with Dr. Bonni Goldstein, Dr. Dustin Sulak, Dr. Kevin Spelman. This is a great opportunity for healthcare professionals to learn about the latest research into cannabinoid therapies and also tap into the deep clinical experience the instructors have to offer. When you consider that most medical schools don’t teach the endocannabinoid system, courses like this are really the only way healthcare providers can learn how to properly administer cannabinoid therapies. Attendees will walk away with practical information about the different types of extractions and products that are on the market and optimal dosing.
Due to federal guidelines, CME credits for physicians are not available for the practicum, However, This course is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing for 9.5 contact hours**
Learn more at CannMedEvents.com/practicum.
Click the player below to listen, and thanks to our sponsor, Radicle Health
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Additional Resources:
Radicle Health Website American Cannabis Nurses Association WebsiteUsing Cannabis to Treat Chronic Pain in the Geriatric Population (CannMed 2019 Presentation)
On the latest episode of CannMed Coffee Talk, we welcome Brianna Cassidy, Chief Science Officer of CDX Analytics.
Brianna and the team at CDX perform safety testing on all types of cannabis samples, including potency, pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, and microbial contamination. As you will hear in the podcast, Brianna takes a creative and analytical approach to solving problems that come with testing cannabis products. At CannMed 2020, Brianna will share her process for evaluating new analytical methods and technologies for her lab. As you can imagine, there are a number of vendors looking to install their systems in cannabis testing labs, so it helps to have a thorough and objective process to choose the best option.
Our team knows first hand that Brianna is thorough when evaluating new technologies. She and the team at CDX provided data that is an important part of the Medicinal Genomics Manufacturer Validation Document.
Brianna and I also discussed the issue of consistency when it comes to potency testing. I was surprised to learn that Cannabis flowers from the same batch are often 50% more or less potent than what's reported on the package. She also explained how water content can make a big difference in potency results.
If you aren’t familiar with what exactly goes on at a cannabis testing lab, you are likely in the majority. But hopefully, by the end of this episode, you will have a much better appreciation for cannabis testing labs!
Click the player below to listen, and thanks to our sponsor, The Cannabis Scientist
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Additional Resources:
Cannabis UncertaintyCDX Analytics website
We are excited to announce CannMed 2020’s Keynote Presenter in the Cultivation Focus Area, and our guest on the latest Coffee Talk Podcast, is Seth Crawford, PhD.
Dr. Crawford is the owner and co-founder of Oregon CBD, along with his brother, Eric. Together (and with the help of some 41 scientists, geneticists and breeders) they specialize in turning out new, exciting and unique strains of industrial hemp varieties designed for maximum yield in large-scale production. Their early adoption of disruptive testing technology allowed Oregon CBD to produce a number of industry firsts—the first high cannabinoid content auto-flowering CBD plant, and the first pure CBG,CBC, CBDV, CBGV and CBCV field-ready varieties. Their growing library is now full of novel phenotype, chemotypes and genotypes and they lead the country in the production and purity of feminized seed.
Even though he’s been growing cannabis since 2003 and hemp since 2015, Dr. Crawford also found time to earn advanced degrees from Oregon State University (MPP, public policy) and the University of Oregon (MS, Ph.D., sociology) and enjoyed a decade-long teaching career at OSU. His published work on the political economy of cannabis provided the first structural analysis of Oregon’s decentralized, pre-legalization production and distribution networks. In 2015, he grew his hobby-level breeding operation into industrial-scale field production of novel, non-psychoactive cannabis.
His company’s most recent invention is 100:1 CBD to THC ratio varieties. And their ultimate goal is to develop a library of unique varieties that will allow farmers to succeed in any environment and produce any cannabinoid. In addition to their private projects, Dr. Crawford’s Oregon CBD is engaged in public research programs on feminized seed, flowering sensitivity, ratio inheritance, and non-destructive testing.
Needless to say, we delighted to have Seth Crawford with us on our Coffee Talk Podcast, and heading up the vitally important Cultivation Focus Area at CannMed 2020.
Additional Resources
CannMed 2018 Presentation - Breeding Distinct Industrial Hemp Varieties for the 21st CenturyOregonCBD websiteOregonCBD Farmer's Resources
In this episode we get the chance to talk with our first representative from the Safety Focus Area. Ini Afia is the Scientific Director at CannaSafe Labs, one of the largest cannabis testing labs in California.
If you aren’t familiar with what exactly goes on at a cannabis testing lab, you are likely in the majority. The cannabis testing labs are sort of like unsung heroes in the cannabis industry. They serve a very important role in ensuring consumer and patient safety, but they rarely get recognized for it.
During the conversation, Ini discussed the types of tests labs perform in California, what challenges they face being in a regulated market, and how they balance keeping customers happy while also keeping consumers safe. So by the end of this episode, you will likely have a much better appreciation for cannabis testing labs! Ini also describes the research he has performed on analyzing the ingredients in vaporizer cartridges, in the wake of last year’s vaping crisis.
Click the player below to listen, and thanks to our sponsor, CannaSafe Labs!
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Additional Resources:
Vapes: What Are You Actually Inhaling?CannMed 2019 Panel - The Future of Cannabis Testing
We are excited to announce Bonni S. Goldstein, MD as the CannMed 2020’s Keynote Presenter in the Medicine Focus Area.
The title of Dr. Goldstein’s presentation is “Cannabis Medicine for Children.” She will be sharing her latest clinical findings, including promising results from her clinical practice focusing on the use of phytocannabinoid medicines to treat serious pediatric medical condition, including epilepsy, autism, and cancer.
You can hear Dr. Goldstein talk about her work on the latest episode of the CannMed Coffee Talk Podcast where she joins us as our guest. (Use the player at the bottom at the post to listen.)
As one of the most respected and experienced medical practitioners in this field, we are honored to have Dr. Goldstein once again take a major role at CannMed 2020. She has been a member of CannMed’s Advisory Board for three years and developed the CannMed Medical Practicum, a day-long workshop where healthcare providers, clinicians, caregivers, and patients learn the science of medical cannabis as well as practical advice about how to use various cannabinoids to treat a range of medical conditions.
A native of New Jersey, Dr. Goldstein received her undergraduate degree at Rutgers University, and her medical degree at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She did her internship, residency, and chief residency at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). Dr. Goldstein was a Clinical Instructor in Pediatrics at USC School of Medicine, Emergency Transport Attending Physician at CHLA, and Emergency Medicine Attending Physician in the Pediatric Emergency Department at LA County - USC Medical Center.
Her interest in the science of medicinal cannabis was kindled more than ten years ago after witnessing its beneficial effects in a friend who was seriously ill. Since then, she has been evaluating and treating both adult and pediatric patients for the use of medicinal cannabis.
Dr. Goldstein is a sought-after lecturer to many patient support programs, including the Cancer Support Community in Southern California. She has been a featured speaker at CannMed since our first conference at Harvard University in 2016. She has also presented at the Medical Cannabis for Autism conference at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the International Congress on Clinical Trials in Cannabis in London, as well as many other cannabis conferences.
She is currently the Medical Director of Canna-Centers, a Los Angeles-based medical practice devoted to helping patients use cannabis medicine for serious and chronic medical conditions. She is also Medical Advisor to WeedMaps.com, a board member of the International Association of Cannabis as Medicine, and a member of the International Cannabinoid Research Society and the Society of Cannabis Clinicians. She is the author of Cannabis Revealed and her second book, Cannabis is Medicine, will be published by Little, Brown Spark in September 2020.
We are thrilled to have Dr. Goldstein as one of our Keynote Speakers and look forward to her participation in the CannMed Medical Practicum!
Additional Resources:
Canna-Centers WebsiteWPA4AProject CBD Dr. Goldstein's CannMed Presentations - 2018 | 2017
In this episode of CannMed Coffee Talk we talk with Martin A. Lee, the co-founder and director of Project CBD. In addition to creating content for the Project CBD website and speaking at conferences around the globe, Martin has authored several books, including Smoke Signals: A Social History of Marijuana–Medical, Recreational and Scientific. In fact, we have a copy in our Medicinal Genomics office.
Martin and I discussed the topic everyone is talking about, COVID-19. Martin has reviewed the scientific literature to find out whether CBD can calm the cytokine storm that the COVID virus can set off, whether CBD has anti-viral properties, and if cannabis is an immune system booster, suppressant, or both. As you can imagine, with a virus as new and novel as COVID-19 and a federal ban on cannabis, the research is far from conclusive. But I think you will see there is some potential and some areas that merit future research. Who knows, maybe we will see some compelling data at a future CannMed event.
Click the player below to listen, and thanks to our sponsor, Project CBD!
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Additional Resources:
CANNABIS, CBD & COVID-19 Martin's CannMed 2019 Presentation "Psychedelics & Cannabis Therapeutics"
We are excited to announce CannMed 2020’s Keynote Presenter in the Science Focus Area is Dr. Ethan Russo.
The title of Dr. Russo’s presentation is “Cannabis and Psychiatry: The Final Frontier”, and it will explore basic science and clinical trial data to assess the role of cannabis psychopharmacology with respect to issues of impairment, depression, insomnia, PTSD, schizophrenia, anxiety and addiction.
You can hear about this fascinating topic and more in our latest episode of the CannMed Coffee Talk Podcast, where Dr. Russo joins us as a guest. This is a great episode for listeners who are new to cannabis medicine because Dr. Russo covers some of the basics, like "what is the endocannabinoid system?" Having said that, there is still plenty of meat on the bone for more advanced listeners. Use the player at the bottom at the post to listen.
Dr. Russo began his career as a physician, board-certified in Neurology with a Special Qualification in Child Neurology, but he has always held a strong interest in medicinal plants, which he gradually incorporated into his practice and research endeavors, with the intention of bringing cannabis-based and other botanical agents back into the mainstream of medicine.
He is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania (Psychology) and the University of Massachusetts Medical School, before residencies in Pediatrics in Phoenix, Arizona and in Child/Adult Neurology at the University of Washington, and was a clinical neurologist in Missoula, Montana for 20 years.
After his clinical experience, he began dedicating his career to developing innovative approaches targeting the human endocannabinoid system to produce dramatic results for patients suffering from a range of neuro- and immuno-based diseases and disorders.
From 2003 to 2014, Dr. Russo was instrumental in developing both Sativex® for pain and MS, and Epidiolex® for intractable epilepsy while at GW Pharmaceuticals. In 2015, he became Medical Director of PHYTECS, a company devoted to the research and development of medicines, supplements and lifestyle approaches to optimizing the function of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the critical homeostatic regulatory mechanism of human physiology. From 2015-2017, he was Director of Research and Development for the International Cannabis and Cannabinoids Institute.
Dr. Russo has also held faculty appointments in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Montana, in Medicine at the University of Washington, and as visiting professor, the Chinese Academy of Sciences. He is a Past-President of the International Cannabinoid Research Society, and former Chairman of the International Association for Cannabinoid Medicines. He serves on the Scientific Advisory Board for the American Botanical Council and has published several books, numerous book chapters, and over forty articles in neurology, pain management, cannabis, and ethnobotany, and he has consulted or lectured on these topics in more than 30 US states and 30 countries.
His current venture, called CReDO Science, aims to advance cannabis-based and botanical therapeutics via the development of optimized chemovars and extracts, as well as pursuing novel formulations and diagnostics related to the endocannabinoid system. More information can be found by visiting https://credo-science.com.
Needless to say, we are delighted to have him as such an important part of CannMed 2020.
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Related Links:
Ethan Russo, MD CannMed 2018 PresentationEthan Russo, MD ResearchGate ProfileCReDO Science LLC Website
We have a great episode for you today featuring Medicinal Genomics Chief Scientific Officer Kevin McKernan. Kevin is a legend in the genomic sequencing space going back to his days working on the human genome project. He has applied his experience and knowledge to trying to better understand the cannabis genome, which as he mentions in the episode is one of the hardest genomes to figure out. So much so that many of the top names in genetic sequencing have collaborated to try and solve the problem.
If you aren’t familiar with sequencing terminology you may not understand all of the information Kevin drops, and it’s a lot, but safe to say his efforts and those of his collaborators will benefit everyone in the community. With a solid understanding of the cannabis genome, cannabis and hemp breeders can create plants that can better produce the compounds needed to treat patients in need.
In time, they may also find markers for better yield and pathogen resistance that can drive down the cost of cannabis so it is more accessible.
This is just another example of how cannabis scientists, clinicians and cultivators can all learn from one another at CannMed 2020. If you would like to join us at Pasadena this September, now is a great time to get your ticket!
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Links to learn more about Kevin and his genetic sequencing work:
Kevin's CannMed Presentations: 2019 | 2018 | 2017 Sequence and annotation of 42 cannabis genomes reveals extensive copy number variation in cannabinoid synthesis and pathogen resistance genesCryptofunded Cannabis Genomes Kannapedia.net StrainSEEK Strain Identification and Registration Service Medicinal Genomics' Cannabis Genetics YouTube Playlist
Medicinal Genomics invites you to listen to our new CannMed Coffee Talk Podcast. Each episode we talk with the leading minds in cannabis science, medicine, cultivation, and safety testing, discussing topics from the bench to the bedside.
Don't miss this opportunity to get a sneak-peek into the 4 FOCUS AREAS that will be covered at CannMed 2020 in Pasadena, CA on September 20-22, 2020.