Cristina Sanchez
Associate Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
Biggest challenge facing cannabis science?
The biggest challenge for me is the translation of preclinical knowledge into clinical practice. We have solid and extensive proof of the therapeutic potential of cannabis for many ailments, but we are still lacking the clinical validation that allows physicians to feel safe prescribing cannabis-based treatments.
Serendipitous career moment?
I had a wake up call the first time I attended a meeting with parents with kids with epilepsy. I understood for the first time the difference between necessary and urgent, and that shifted my personal and professional goal. We should all put ourselves in others’ shoes more often.
Predictions?
More than predictions, I have hopes – hopes based on the strength of science. My hope is that the use of medical cannabis will soon be legal and affordable for any patient that can benefit from it.
