Learn how UFRN is developing a solid research program on Cannabis in a pre-clinical phase
Neuroscientist Claudio Queiroz from the Brain Institute of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte believes that the institution is advancing in the scientific development of the plant, especially in the northeast.
By Lucas G´óis
Claudio Queiroz is a neuroscientist and head of the Neural Networks and Epilepsy Laboratory at the Brain Institute (ICe) and is involved in developing new research with the plant at UFRN. According to the researcher, the goal is to find a better therapeutic strategy for (**refractory epilepsies /insert link** https://sechat.com.br/doenca/epilepsia/ ).
The Brain Institute is an academic hub of UFRN specializing in the field of neuroscience and is currently a pioneer at the university in continuing research for the development of the plant.
In December of last year, the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) authorized the university to have controlled cultivation and processing of cannabis for scientific research purposes.
The Decision
Through this decision, the institution can develop materials for the production and diversity of phytocannabinoids in different cannabis strains, as well as test the effects of different phytocomplexes in managing pathological signs and symptoms using animal models. According to Queiroz, now, all of this is done without relying on the importation of inputs from other countries.
The research program allows for mastering the stages of production and validation of phytocomplexes and their effects on induced and spontaneous seizures.
According to the neuroscientist, this opens doors for the growth of therapy with cannabidiol in the country. “UFRN will be able to initiate a solid research program on cannabis for therapeutic purposes in the pre-clinical phase, contributing to scientific, social, and economic development,” said the professor from ICe.
How Will the Research Be Conducted?
The research will go through three stages. Initially, the necessary parameters for germination, growth, and maturation of plants with different genetics will be mastered. Then, it will be necessary to understand the diversity of phytocannabinoids and their stability throughout the different phases of the plant. Finally, the aim is to compare the anti-crisis effects of phytocannabinoids administered in isolation with those of phytocomplexes, solutions containing various phytocannabinoids.
“The hypothesis is to evaluate the existence of synergistic effects between phytocannabinoids in controlling neuronal excitability,” pondered the researcher.
Universities' Role in Breaking Prejudices
The milestone attributed to UFRN enables new groups to obtain special licenses for their research and increasingly answer questions in the field, contributing to the reduction of the stigma associated with the plant through scientific knowledge.
“Through Anvisa's historic decision, Brazilian society can see that it is possible to develop cannabis research on national soil, with safety, traceability, and responsibility,” stated Claudio Queiroz.