Imperial College London – Cannabis Research
In a pioneering investigation that promises to revolutionize our comprehension of medical cannabis, the esteemed Imperial College London researchers are conducting extensive trials on cannabis-derived medicinal products. The main aim of these trials is to probe the potential of these products in treating a variety of health conditions, specifically cancer and acute pain. The research, carried out in partnership with EMMAC Life Sciences, a medical cannabis company, and The Institute of Cancer Research, London, endeavors to thoroughly assess the effectiveness of these products that are gradually gaining prominence in the global medical community. Although medical cannabis is already commonly prescribed in countries including Germany and the United States and has been legal in the United Kingdom since October 2018, the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is reticent to fully adopt it. This reluctance is primarily due to the absence of exhaustive evidence confirming its safety, clinical efficacy, and cost-effectiveness. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which formulates the clinical guidelines followed by the NHS, requires this kind of robust evidence before endorsing any novel treatment. The dedicated team at Imperial College is determined to generate the empirical data needed to guide organizations like NICE. The institute has supported a government initiative calling for increased industry research into medical cannabis. The data produced from these trials will aid in deciding whether cannabis-based medicinal products can be advocated as safe and effective treatments for specific health conditions. Leading this innovative study is Mikael Sodergren, a consultant hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeon, and Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer at Imperial’s Department of Surgery and Cancer. He discussed the medical profession’s progress in embracing medical cannabis and the challenges of providing solid data to affirm clinical efficacy and parse the effectiveness of various elements of the plant. A crucial focus of the Imperial College research is the evaluation of medical cannabis as a potential substitute for opioid painkillers, particularly in light of the opioid crisis where addiction often begins with a prescription for managing acute pain. The researchers intend to test medical cannabis in patients who have undergone significant abdominal surgery, tracking their opioid usage to determine if it diminishes. Moreover, the team will explore the potential of CBD, a primary active compound in cannabis, as a cancer treatment. These pre-clinical trials will involve both in vitro and in vivo work, in collaboration with cancer researcher Dr. Anguraj Sadanandam and his colleagues at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR). Sodergren, also a paid scientific advisor to EMMAC Life Sciences, is hopeful about fostering a more evidence-based understanding of cannabis’s clinical efficacy. He noted the importance of negative results in building a comprehensive understanding of medical cannabis’s potential and limitations. The partnership with EMMAC Life Sciences offers Imperial academics the chance to secure additional research funding and apply their expertise to real-world industry and societal challenges. Sodergren pointed out the benefits of the collaboration, including sector-specific knowledge and networking opportunities. Antonio Costanzo, CEO of EMMAC Life Sciences, highlighted the company’s commitment to science-led approaches, while Dr. Sadanandam, Team Leader in Systems and Precision Cancer Medicine at ICR, expressed his pleasure to collaborate with Imperial College London and EMMAC Life Sciences.
Imperial University Cannabis Research projects. Here are some of the topics they are working on:
The intriguing correlation between inflammation and cancer has long been a topic of interest in the medical field. Specifically, researchers are delving into the intricate mechanisms of how phytocannabinoids and related compounds influence the complex molecular pathways that are involved in the development and progression of cancer. Phytocannabinoids are plant-derived compounds that are known to interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body and have been shown to have numerous therapeutic effects. Endocannabinoids, along with their receptors, are found throughout the body in the immune system, organs, connective tissues, glands, and the brain. In each tissue, the cannabinoid system performs different tasks, but the goal is always the same: homeostasis, which is the maintenance of a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment. However, to truly appreciate the promise of phytocannabinoids and related compounds, one must understand the molecular pathways that govern the proliferation, survival, and death of cancer cells. These pathways are a complex network of interconnecting biochemical routes, which, when perturbed, can lead to the abnormal cell growth characteristic of cancer. In addition to investigating the primary effects of cannabinoids on these pathways, researchers are also exploring the potential synergistic effects of these compounds with other therapeutic strategies. For instance, they are testing how cannabinoids can enhance the effects of chemotherapy and immunotherapy—two of the most common and potent treatments for cancer. Chemotherapy works by targeting cells that are dividing rapidly, a characteristic of most cancer cells. The cells in the body that are growing quickly, such as those in the bone marrow, the lining of the mouth, and the hair follicles, are also affected. This is why chemotherapy often leads to unpleasant side effects like hair loss and mouth sores. Therefore, finding ways to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy while reducing its side effects is of considerable interest to researchers and clinicians alike. Immunotherapy, on the other hand, uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It stimulates the immune system to work harder or smarter to attack cancer cells or it introduces man-made immune system proteins to enhance the body’s natural defense mechanisms. However, some cancers develop ways to evade the immune response, making them resistant to immunotherapy. Cannabinoids have been shown in preclinical studies to enhance the efficacy of both chemotherapy and immunotherapy, particularly for cancers that have demonstrated resistance to conventional treatments. This suggests that the incorporation of cannabinoids into conventional cancer treatment protocols may result in a more effective, comprehensive approach to battling this devastating disease. Thus, the marriage of cannabinoids, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy could potentially revolutionize the way we treat cancer, providing hope for countless patients worldwide. These studies underscore the importance of ongoing research into the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids and related compounds in the treatment of cancer, a disease that continues to represent a significant global health challenge.
One critical area of focus for scientists in the field of pain management is the development of new, effective analgesic treatments. Many of these potential treatments are based on cannabinoids — substantial components found in Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as marijuana, and other related compounds. These treatments specifically target receptors such as CB1 and CB2, both of which play a significant role in how we perceive pain. CB1 and CB2 are part of the endocannabinoid system, a complex cell-signaling system in the human body that plays a crucial role in regulating a wide range of functions and processes, including sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and reproduction and fertility. Significantly, the endocannabinoid system is implicated in controlling pain perception. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more commonly found in peripheral organs and cells associated with the immune system. To test the potency and efficacy of these cannabinoid-based compounds, researchers use in vitro models of hypersensitivity. These models use neurons extracted from the sensory ganglia of both rodents and humans. Sensory ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies that convey sensory information from the peripheral nervous system to the central nervous system. By studying these neurons in a controlled environment, scientists can better understand the potential therapeutic effects of cannabinoids on pain signaling pathways. Recently, there has been a significant breakthrough in this field of study. Scientists have demonstrated that CBD (Cannabidiol) — one of the main active compounds in cannabis — can inhibit or desensitize a specific receptor known as TRPV1. The TRPV1 receptor, often referred to as the capsaicin receptor, is a protein that plays a key role in transmitting pain signals from the peripheral nervous system to the brain. The inhibition or desensitization of the TRPV1 receptor by CBD suggests a promising potential for the compound as a novel analgesic treatment. This discovery could revolutionize the way we manage and treat pain, opening the doors for more effective, targeted therapies. Furthermore, it emphasizes the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, demonstrating that they could offer crucial solutions for individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions. In conclusion, the scientific community is actively aiming to develop new analgesic treatments based on cannabinoids and other similar compounds. By targeting pain perception receptors and using in vitro models for testing, they have unlocked the potential of compounds like CBD. As research progresses, it is hoped that these findings will lead to the development of more effective treatments for managing pain, improving the quality of life for those living with chronic pain conditions.
Real World Evidence (RWE) is a critical component in healthcare research and development. It pertains to the utilization of health data collected from non-interventional studies, registries, electronic health records, and administrative datasets to generate evidence for the safety and effectiveness of medical products, particularly cannabis-based medicinal products. In this context, non-interventional studies offer a wealth of information that is gleaned from observational studies conducted in natural, real-world settings rather than in controlled clinical environments. These studies provide valuable insights into the effects of cannabis-based medicinal products under regular use without the artificial constraints imposed by controlled studies. Registries, on the other hand, are organized systems used to collect uniform data about a population defined by a particular disease, condition, or exposure and that serve a predetermined scientific, clinical, or policy purpose. They provide a broad snapshot of patient experiences across diverse demographics, making them powerful tools for understanding the potential safety and effectiveness of cannabis-based medicinal products. Moreover, electronic health records (EHRs) are digital versions of patient charts, containing a patient’s medical history, diagnoses, medications, treatment plans, immunization dates, allergies, radiology images, and laboratory and test results. By analyzing EHRs, researchers can map the impact of cannabis-based medicinal products on a patient’s overall health trajectory. Administrative datasets, which include insurance claims data and patient registry data, contribute another vital layer to the understanding of cannabis-based medicinal products. These rich data sources allow for the examination of patterns of care, outcomes, costs, and the roles of various health services in patient care. By rigorously analyzing data from these various sources, they generate a high degree of evidence about the safety and effectiveness of cannabis-based medicinal products. This evidence serves two primary functions: it both supports the drug development process and informs clinical decision-making. In terms of drug development, this evidence guides researchers in their efforts to refine cannabis-based medicinal products. It points to potential side effects that need to be mitigated, suggests dosing strategies that might enhance effectiveness, and identifies patient groups who may benefit most from these interventions. In the realm of clinical decision-making, this evidence informs healthcare practitioners about the real-world implications of prescribing cannabis-based medicinal products. It offers insights into how different patients might respond to these drugs, what side effects they might experience, and how these drugs might interact with other treatments they are receiving. This empowers clinicians to make more informed, individualized, and ultimately safe and effective treatment decisions for their patients. In conclusion, real-world evidence, derived from non-interventional studies, registries, electronic health records, and administrative datasets, plays a pivotal role in validating the safety and effectiveness of cannabis-based medicinal products. It supports the drug development process and provides invaluable insights to inform clinical decision-making.
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Imperial College London is a leading center for cannabis research. The Medical Cannabis Research Group at Imperial is investigating the potential of cannabis-based medicinal products for the treatment of a range of conditions, including:
- Cancer
- Acute pain
- Chronic pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Epilepsy
- Psychiatric disorders
The group is also conducting research into the mechanisms of action of cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis. This research is aimed at developing a better understanding of how cannabinoids interact with the body and how they can be used to treat disease.
In addition to its own research, the Medical Cannabis Research Group is also involved in a number of collaborations with other institutions. These collaborations are aimed at accelerating the pace of cannabis research and bringing new cannabis-based treatments to patients.
Some of the specific cannabis research projects being conducted at Imperial College London include:
- A clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of cannabis-based medicinal products in the treatment of acute post-operative pain
- A study investigating the use of CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, in the treatment of cancer
- A study investigating the use of cannabinoids in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease
- A study investigating the use of cannabinoids in the treatment of multiple sclerosis
The Medical Cannabis Research Group is committed to conducting high-quality research that will help to inform the development of safe and effective cannabis-based treatments.
For more information on cannabis research at Imperial College London, please visit the Medical Cannabis Research Group website: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/medicine/departments/department-surgery-cancer/research/surgery/groups/medical-cannabis-research-group/
EMMAC Life Sciences, a renowned European cannabis enterprise, was successfully acquired by the US-based Curaleaf in 2021, marking a significant milestone in the global cannabis industry. The company originally came into existence in 2016. Over a period of five years, it evolved into a cannabis giant, establishing operations across multiple European countries including the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. This impressive expansion underlines the strategic vision of the company and its commitment to capturing a significant share of the burgeoning European cannabis market. One unique aspect of EMMAC Life Sciences was its vertically integrated business model, which allowed it to control every step of its value chain. This comprehensive approach ranged from the cultivation of cannabis plants to processing these plants into various medical and recreational products, and distributing them to dispensaries and research facilities. Such an integrated model gave EMMAC control over quality, cost, and delivery timelines, setting it apart from many competitors in the industry. In the cultivation process, EMMAC prided itself on adhering to rigorous standards and best practices in agricultural technology, ensuring the production of high-quality cannabis. This commitment to quality was reflected in the final product, contributing to the brand’s reputation and customer satisfaction. Beyond cultivation, EMMAC also maintained an edge in processing. The company utilized advanced extraction techniques and sophisticated processing technologies to convert raw cannabis into numerous forms, such as oils, tinctures, and capsules, while preserving their therapeutic properties. This wide array of options catered to diverse consumer preferences and medical needs, further solidifying EMMAC’s position in the market. Besides cultivation and processing, EMMAC’s vertically integrated model extended to distribution. The company managed a vast network of dispensaries across Europe, facilitating efficient delivery of their products and ensuring a steady stream of revenue. This distribution network also enabled the company to understand and respond to market dynamics quickly and efficiently. Moreover, EMMAC was committed to improving the understanding and acceptability of cannabis through research and development. The company not only improved existing products but also innovated new ones to meet emerging consumer needs. This focus on R&D, coupled with a robust intellectual property portfolio, demonstrated EMMAC’s commitment to pioneering the cannabis industry. In summary, EMMAC Life Sciences, with its comprehensive operations in cultivation, processing, distribution, and research and development, rose to prominence in the European cannabis market before its acquisition by Curaleaf in 2021. This acquisition marked a pivotal moment for Curaleaf, allowing it to expand its footprint into the European market and further diversify its global operations.
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EMMAC Life Sciences cannabis cultivation facility
EMMAC Life Sciences Ltd, a leading European cannabis company, was renowned for its vast cultivation facility nestled in the heart of Portugal. This facility, christened by industry insiders as one of the largest and most technologically advanced in all of Europe, was a testament to the company’s commitment to scale, quality, and innovation in the burgeoning field of cannabis cultivation. The cultivation complex was a marvel. It sprawled over acres of fertile Portuguese land, with vast greenhouses and state-of-the-art processing centers that stood as sentinels to the thriving cannabis plants. The facility was designed to produce cannabis of the highest quality, with a relentless adherence to the strictest of European regulatory standards. The operations were not only vast but also infused with the latest technological advancements, ensuring the pristine quality of each harvest. EMMAC was not just a cultivator but also a dedicated producer of a diversified range of top-notch cannabis products. This broad product portfolio included the highly demanded cannabis flower, meticulously extracted cannabis oils, and carefully formulated capsules. Each product was the result of a rigorous process, starting from selecting the most potent and disease-resistant strains to processing them under stringent conditions, thus ensuring that the final product was nothing short of the best. Beyond production, EMMAC also held a robust focus on research and development, acknowledging the necessity of scientific exploration in the evolution of cannabis use. The company had a dedicated team of scientists and researchers, constantly probing the potential of cannabis in various therapeutic areas. Their work was tantamount to a meticulous exploration of uncharted territories, aimed at unveiling new possibilities and breakthroughs. Moreover, EMMAC was directly involved in a number of clinical trials, investigating the potential of cannabis for the treatment of a diverse range of conditions. These trials, which brought together experts from different medical fields, were designed to study the effectiveness and safety of cannabis-based treatments. The company was keen on exploring cannabis’s potential in managing pain, inflammation, and various neurological conditions. Their involvement in these clinical trials was a testament to their commitment to pushing the boundaries of cannabis’s therapeutic potential. In conclusion, EMMAC was not just a company in the cannabis industry; it was a significant player steering the evolution of this industry in Europe. With its vast cultivation facility, diversified product portfolio, and relentless focus on research and development, the company was at the forefront of the exciting journey of cannabis towards acceptance and widespread usage in the medical world.
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EMMAC Life Sciences cannabis products
EMMAC Life Sciences Limited, a company well-known for its significant influence in the European cannabis market, was acquired by Curaleaf Holdings, Inc., a giant in the cannabis industry. This strategic merger was hailed as a landmark occurrence within the sector, catching the attention of stakeholders, investors, and industry enthusiasts alike. EMMAC’s sterling reputation was built on its commitment to advancing the medical cannabis industry in Europe. It established a robust network, extending its reach across several European countries. Its large-scale cultivation, extraction, formulation, and distribution capabilities made it a force to be reckoned with in the cannabis market. EMMAC was not just a manufacturer; it also invested heavily in research and development, working relentlessly to enhance the therapeutic potentials of cannabis. Its pursuit of innovation made it an attractive target for acquisition. On the other hand, Curaleaf, an industry titan based in the United States, has been deemed one of the largest cannabis companies worldwide. With roots in Wakefield, Massachusetts, Curaleaf has managed to expand its operations extensively within the United States. The company’s success can be attributed to its commitment to high-quality products, excellent customer service, and a strategic approach to the evolving legal landscape around cannabis in the U.S. The acquisition of EMMAC by Curaleaf was, therefore, a move that shook the industry. It was a strategic alliance that not only expanded Curaleaf’s global footprint but also created a leading global cannabis company with a substantial presence in both the United States and Europe. This merger brought about a unique synergy, a fusion of experiences, strategies, and market presence. It was a testament to Curaleaf’s ambition to scale and dominate the global cannabis landscape. As a result of this acquisition, Curaleaf gained access to EMMAC’s expansive European network, enhancing their ability to navigate the complex and diverse European market. Furthermore, the acquisition poised Curaleaf to leverage EMMAC’s scientific research and innovation capabilities. This could potentially lead to the development of new products, improving the company’s offerings and further establishing its position in the market. Meanwhile, EMMAC, now under the umbrella of Curaleaf, had the opportunity to benefit from the latter’s industry experience, established brand, and financial resources. This would potentially enable EMMAC to accelerate its growth and scale-up operations more quickly. In summary, the acquisition of EMMAC by Curaleaf was a significant event that greatly impacted the cannabis industry. It created a leading global cannabis company that spans both the U.S. and European markets, offering potential for growth, innovation, and increased market dominance. This major industry milestone underscored the rapidly evolving nature of the cannabis business landscape, demonstrating the increasing importance of strategic alliances and mergers in propelling corporate growth and global expansion.
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Curaleaf cannabis company
EMMAC Life Sciences is a European cannabis company that was acquired by Curaleaf International in 20211. EMMAC is involved in cannabis research, cultivation, extraction, and production, as well as distribution and sales of medical cannabis products across several European countries21. EMMAC has a vertically integrated model that allows it to control the quality and consistency of its products, as well as to meet the regulatory requirements of different markets1. EMMAC has two cultivation facilities in Portugal and Spain, where it grows medical cannabis under licences from the local authorities23. EMMAC also has a GMP-certified manufacturing site in Alicante, Spain, where it extracts and produces cannabis extract as an active pharmaceutical ingredient2. EMMAC’s vision is to bring the life-enhancing potential of cannabis to the people who need it4.
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What are some of EMMAC’s products?
Medical cannabis flowers: These are dried and trimmed cannabis buds that can be vaporized or smoked by patients. EMMAC offers different strains of medical cannabis flowers, such as Bedrocan, Bediol, Bedica, and Bedrolite, that have varying levels of THC and CBD, the main active ingredients in cannabis. These products are imported from the Netherlands and distributed in Germany through EMMAC’s subsidiary, Adven1.
Medical cannabis oils: These are liquid extracts of cannabis that can be taken orally or sublingually by patients. EMMAC produces its own range of medical cannabis oils, such as Curaleaf 10/10, Curaleaf 5/20, and Curaleaf 1/30, that have different ratios of THC and CBD to suit different medical conditions. These products are manufactured in Spain and distributed in Germany through Adven1.
Medical cannabis capsules: These are soft gel capsules that contain cannabis oil and can be swallowed by patients. EMMAC offers two types of medical cannabis capsules, Curaleaf THC and Curaleaf CBD, that have either high THC or high CBD content. These products are also manufactured in Spain and distributed in Germany through Adven1.
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