Examples of UW cannabis research

The UW Center for Cannabis Research is coordinating and fostering efforts for Cannabis research across multiple key disciplines. Emphasis is put on innovation in Cannabis research and technology and solidifying science that addresses pressing Cannabis-related questions.

This is unpublished

Cannabis and medicine

Problem

People suffering from debilitating and potentially fatal diseases do not find relief with currently available therapeutics.

At the microscopeSolution

Study and optimize the medicinal properties of cannabinoid compounds to develop novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of debilitating and potentially fatal diseases.

Cannabis use and Bioactivity - Potency

Problem

The Cannabis plant produces many phyto-cannabinoids, and highly potent artificial cannabinoids can be synthesized in the laboratory; however, we do not thoroughly understand their bioactivity (therapeutic versus harmful) and potency (amounts needed for bioactivity) in humans.

Cannabinoids produced cannabis and artificial cannabinoids
Above the line: Examples of Phyto-cannabinoids produced by the Cannabis plant. Below the line: Artificial cannabinoids synthetized in the laboratory.

Solution

Study the impact of plant-derived and artificial cannabinoids use in humans and in laboratory experiments.

cannabis use and  development

Problem

Cannabis use during development (the developing embryo, children and adolescence may increase incidence of mental illnesses.

Teenage brainSolution

Study the impact of cannabinoid use during development in humans and laboratory settings to understand its impact on vulnerable tissues, such as the developing brain.

Cannabis use and impairment

Problem

Acute and chronic Cannabis use can lead to behavioral impairment, including motor, attention deficits, sedation and exhaustion.

Solution

Study the impact of cannabinoid use on motor, attention deficits, sedation and exhaustion in humans and laboratory settings to understand its impact.

Prevention

Problem

Prevention professionals and parents want to know how to best communicate with patients (children, adolescents, adults and elderly) about legal Cannabis use.

Talking with patientsSolution

To help prevention professionals and parents, researchers at the UW School of Social Work can develop and test preventive interventions for youth and young adults.

Occupational & environmental Health

Problem

Cannabis production exposes workers to under-appreciated and unique occupational hazards.

Person at workSolution

To investigate the Cannabis plant and its hundreds of cannabinoids as potential therapeutic alternatives to those suffering from intractable conditions.

 

Society & health

Problem

Vulnerable populations in Washington State are at higher risk of negative health and social impacts of Cannabis use.

Nurse at computerSolution

Research the use of Cannabis products and their marketing among youth, pregnant women, older adults, and people struggling with mental illness to inform policy, treatment, and public health.

Legal

Problem

There is a constant need to optimize the legal system for Cannabis production, sales and use in Washington State.

DiscussionSolution

Research on the legal framework for Cannabis production, sales and use in Washington State to inform policy.

Plant biology

Problem

Cannabis strain information and optimized cultivation methods are currently unsubstantiated by science.

plant biologySolution

Plant biologists can develop genetic information about Cannabis plants, and optimize growing practices targeted to specific products.