Top Cannabis Science Headlines: October Roundup
Our top picks from the month’s research, business, and policy news from across the cannabis industry
Margot Lespade | | 2 min read | News
Every month, we carefully curate the top stories from across the fields of medical research, testing, processing, and plant science. We also bring you the latest in the world of cannabis business and legislation. Want it all in your inbox? Sign up here.
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Speedy dilute-and-shoot
Researchers from the University of Rochester Medical Center, NY, United States, report a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay that quantifies cannabis metabolites THC-COOH and THC-COO in human urine. The assay uses a direct dilute-and-shoot approach that simplifies the sample preparation process, and improves overall throughput for a quick and accurate cannabis use detection method. The turnaround time was five minutes – a significant improvement over existing dilute-and-shoot assays that typically take 20 minutes. Researchers believe this new method can be easily applied and routinely performed in any clinical laboratory setting.
A solution to the opioid crisis?
Although the US is at the center of the opioid crisis, the issue is an increasing public health concern in other countries – including the UK, Sweden, and Australia. As such, researchers from Florida, US, decided to investigate the effects of medical cannabis on opioid use. The study revealed that medical cannabis patients are reporting decreased opioid use and overall improvements in health functioning after legalization – potentially confirming cannabis’ harm reduction role. Although the study included some limitations – such as self-selected participants and potential recall bias – the researchers are hopeful that this may have a positive impact on public health decisions. Link
What else is going on?
Research + Medicine
Maternal THC exposure in mice during pregnancy may cause fetal heart abnormalities and cardiac dysfunction in postnatal life. Link
Cannabis confirmed to increase risk of developing incident atrial fibrillation. Link
CBD decreases stress and aggression in Nile tilapia fish, indicating its potential for non-mammal welfare. Link
Study shows patients with cannabis use disorder benefit from combined treatment of nabiximol and counseling. Link
Testing + Processing
UCLA researchers create device that detects THC concentration in solution, getting one step closer to handheld cannabis breathalyzers. Link
Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry rapidly quantifies 10 cannabinoids in human plasma. Link
Business + Regulation
Neuraxpharm launches "Change for Health" campaign in Europe to heighten recognition and acceptance of medical cannabis. Link
NBA extend suspension of cannabis testing for third consecutive season. Link
Biden announces steps to change federal cannabis laws and pardons all prior offenses of simple possession. Link
American Bankers Association reveals two in three Americans would support bill that allows state-legal cannabis businesses access to conventional banking services. Link
Germany reveals blueprint for decriminalization plan that will allow purchase and possession of small amounts of cannabis. Link
Rasmussen Reports poll reveals that most Americans don’t view cannabis as dangerous. Link
Margot Lespade, Associate Editor, The Cannabis Scientist
