Popular cannabis supplement shows inconsistent anti-inflammatory effects in brain cells
Cannabigerol, a non-intoxicating cannabis compound sold as a supplement, is often promoted as anti-inflammatory. A new laboratory study found its effects on brain immune cells were inconsistent, and that most doses broke isolated DNA strands.
Cannabigerol, a non-intoxicating cannabis compound, has become a popular dietary supplement due to its potential anti-inflammatory and brain-protecting properties. However, new research published in Toxicology reveals that its effects on brain immune cells are inconsistent and highly dependent on concentration. Low doses preserve cell integrity, while higher concentrations cause DNA damage and cell death.
The highest concentration killed cells and induced severe chemical stress, while low doses failed to effectively alleviate an induced inflammatory response. Cannabigerol, belonging to the phytocannabinoid class, is a molecule found in Cannabis sativa plants and does not cause intoxication or impair coordination. Early human studies suggest that cannabigerol can reduce anxiety and stress, improve verbal memory recall, and potentially protect the nervous system from neuroinflammation.
The research team investigated cannabigerol's safety and efficacy by exposing mouse microglial cells to varying concentrations of the compound and evaluating cellular safety, DNA damage, chemical stress markers, and inflammasome activity.
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