A compound found in cannabis plants could help prevent Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s by protecting the brain from the effects of ageing.
Cannabinol or CBN is just the latest cannabis compound to have shown medical potential, though CBD and THC are much better understood.
Senior author Professor Pamela Maher said:
“We’ve found cannabinol protects neurons from oxidative stress and cell death—two of the major contributors to Alzheimer’s.
“This discovery could one day lead to the development of new therapeutics for treating this disease and other neuro-degenerative disorders—like Parkinson’s disease.”
The researchers at the Salk Institute in California previously identified the neuroprotective qualities of the cannabinoid. And with this new research, they now understand the mechanism.
Lab experiments showed that CBN stop oxitosis – a type of cell death triggered by the loss of antioxidant, glutathione.
The study also showed that CBN did not activate a cannabinoid receptor, suggesting that the medication will not cause a ‘high’ effect.
First author Dr Zhibin Liang said:
”CBN is not a controlled substance like THC—the psychotropic compound in cannabis.
“Evidence has shown CBN is safe in animals and humans. And because CBN works independently of cannabinoid receptors, it could also work in a wide variety of cells with ample therapeutic potential.”
The study has implications for other neuro-degenerative diseases that are linked to glutathione loss, the researchers added.
Prof Maher said: “Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in changes in various tissues—not just in the brain and ageing.
“So the fact this compound is able to maintain mitochondrial function suggests it could have more benefits beyond the context of Alzheimer’s disease.”
Prof Maher called for further research into lesser-known cannabinoids including CBN.
A 2015 study found that cannabis compound cannabigerol (CBG) could protect the brain against Huntington’s disease.
The cannabinoid may also protect the brain against repeat concussions from contact sports such as rugby and American football.
