The Institute of Technological Research (IPT) inaugurated at its campus in Cidade Universitária the Nucleus of Advanced Technologies for Well-being and Health Applied to Life Sciences (Nutabes). One of its main research fronts is the analytical development and quality control of medicinal Cannabis.

The new facility focuses on validating methods to quantify cannabinoids, analyze contaminants, and ensure the stability of formulations. The space, inaugurated on Monday, October 13, received an investment of R$ 16 million from the State Government of São Paulo for the construction of a modern 1,650 m² complex.

Authorization for cannabis research

With the regulatory advancement of medicinal Cannabis worldwide, the characterization of its derivatives has become essential. Nutabes works to ensure the quality, standardization, and safety of these products, meeting legal requirements.

In addition to cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), other cannabinoids and terpenes gain therapeutic relevance. These compounds can influence the effects and confer important characteristics to products derived from medicinal Cannabis.

To support the challenges of associations and companies in Brazil, Nutabes-IPT obtained a Special Research Authorization from Anvisa. The nucleus has already implemented methodologies for the characterization of cannabinoids and terpenes in medicinal Cannabis oils.

The analyses are carried out using advanced techniques such as gas chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry. The nucleus's work is a decisive step in developing innovative solutions that meet the emerging health and well-being demands in the country, especially in the field of medicinal Cannabis.

Modern and flexible structure

The laboratory has a flexible design that allows the installation of new equipment without the need for major construction work. The space includes areas for molecular biology, a future insectarium for medically important arthropods, and an extended reality room for technological innovation.

Nutabes also houses a multipurpose laboratory to meet industry and government demands, as well as a high-technology swine biotherium with biosafety level 2 (BSL2). The structure is aimed at creating genetically modified animals for xenotransplantation purposes.