This panel examines the issue of lab shopping in the cannabis industry—where some producers seek out labs willing to provide favorable testing results—and its serious implications for consumer safety and industry credibility. Industry experts, lab representatives, and regulators will discuss the prevalence of lab shopping, the risks it poses to product quality, and case studies illustrating its real-world impact. The panel will also explore practical solutions to establish a culture of safety, including enhanced oversight, ethical testing practices, and the role of technology in ensuring accurate and trustworthy testing outcomes.
Key Discussion Points:
- Understand lab shopping’s definition, prevalence, and drivers within the cannabis industry
- Consumer safety risks and credibility challenges posed by lab shopping
- Case studies highlighting the consequences of lab shopping and lessons learned
- Pathways to foster a safety-driven culture, which include regulatory, lab, and consumer roles in combating lab shopping and promoting transparency
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9:00 AM – 9:05 AM – Welcome and Introductions
9:05 AM – 9:35 AM – Endocannabinoid System Physiology – Bonni Goldstein
This presentation will explore the key components of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), including its receptors, endogenous ligands, and enzymes involved in regulation. We will discuss how the ECS maintains homeostasis in various physiological processes such as pain modulation, immune response, and neural function. Special attention will be given to the clinical relevance of the ECS, including its role in conditions like chronic pain, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as endocannabinoid deficiency and overactivity. This talk is designed to enhance healthcare professionals’ understanding of the ECS and its impact on treatment strategies.
9:35 AM – 10:10 AM – Endocannabinoid System Pharmacology – Dustin Sulak
Cannabis sativa’s clinical safety and versatility stem from the pharmacologic actions of its major constituents, the cannabinoids. This presentation includes clinically-relevant botany, the mechanisms of action of the major neutral and acidic cannabinoids, pharmacokinetics of common delivery methods, multiphasic dose-response effects, and the intriguing data from the ultra-low dose range.
This panel explores critical challenges and opportunities in cannabis testing, focusing on accreditation, standards, allowable methods, and batch size regulations. Industry experts will discuss ways to strengthen testing accuracy, ensure quality control, and improve consumer safety by addressing the variability in testing results, batch size inconsistencies, and the current proficiency testing requirements. The conversation will also tackle potential reforms such as implementing Limits of Detection (LOD) in microbial assays, refining accreditation and proficiency standards, and harmonizing sample collection processes across jurisdictions.
Key Discussion Points:
- Opportunities and challenges with current accreditation processes, validation vs. verification requirements, and allowable methods
- Impact of varying batch size requirements and sample collection practices on testing consistency and reliability
- Exploring the feasibility of adopting LOD-based detection standards for microbial assays
- Addressing issues with Proficiency Testing (PT) samples and requirements to better reflect real-world testing conditions
- Potential reforms in lab accreditation, action levels, and batch size regulations for improved standardization
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This panel addresses the impact of regulatory challenges on cannabis growers’ pest management practices, exploring how unclear regulations often lead to the overuse of chemical solutions that may compromise product quality and safety. Through case studies and expert insights, panelists will examine the unintended consequences of current remediation policies and explore safer, more sustainable alternatives such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs, biological fungicides, and plant genetics. Attendees will gain an understanding of how evolving regulations can support innovation in pest resistance and reduce reliance on chemical remediation.
Key Discussion Points:
- Regulatory impacts on pest management and remediation choices, including unintended consequences on product safety and quality
- Case studies illustrating the negative effects of chemical fungicides and remediation methods
- IPM programs and plant genetics as proactive approaches to pest resistance and reduced need for remediation
- Pathways for regulatory evolution to encourage safer pest control methods and promote consumer education on product safety
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10:30 AM – 11:05 AM – Methods of Delivery/Types of Products – Laura Barrett
This lecture will provide a comprehensive overview of the various methods for using medical cannabis and the wide range of product types available to patients. We will discuss the differences between inhalation, oral ingestion, sublingual application, and topical use, highlighting the advantages and potential limitations of each method in clinical settings. The presentation will cover different cannabis formulations, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, transdermal patches, and vaporized products, while discussing factors such as bioavailability, onset time, and duration of effects.
11:05 AM – 11:50 AM – Cannabinoid Dosing – Dustin Sulak
This presentation will focus on how to approach the process of dosing cannabinoid-based medicines, emphasizing patient safety and therapeutic efficacy. Practical dosing strategies, including the “start low, go slow” approach, will be discussed alongside clinical pearls for titration, managing side effects, and monitoring patient response. The talk will also provide insights on adjusting doses for different conditions with the goal of achieving the best possible patient outcomes while minimizing adverse effects.
11:50 AM – 12:35 AM – Drug Interactions/Adverse Events (CHS) – Bonni Goldstein
Concerns about cannabinoid-drug interactions may add to the clinicians reluctance to add cannabinoids to a patient’s medication regimen. This lecture will provide a thorough overview of the potential cannabinoid-drug interactions, side effects, safety concerns, and cautions related to the use of cannabinoid-based medicines, allowing the clinician to feel confident about medical canabis recommendations. This talk will also cover cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), highlighting its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Healthcare providers will learn strategies to monitor and mitigate risks of cannabis medicine while optimizing patient outcomes.
This session delves into the powerful role of genomics in cannabis and modern agriculture. Panelists will introduce key concepts in cannabis genomics, discuss the current landscape of genetic knowledge, and highlight the unexplored potential within the cannabis genome. Attendees will discover how genomics is uncovering genetic diversity and enabling the identification of valuable traits, from pest resistance to enhanced yield. Through tools like marker-assisted selection (MAS), genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and genome editing (CRISPR), participants will learn how to leverage these innovations in breeding programs. Case studies will showcase the practical applications of genomics, demonstrating its transformative impact on developing resilient, high-performing cannabis varieties.
Objective:
Equip attendees with insights into leveraging genomics for breeding advancements in cannabis.
Key Topics Covered:
- Fundamentals of genomics in agriculture and cannabis
- Current understanding and mysteries within the cannabis genome
- Exploring genetic diversity to pinpoint valuable traits
- Advanced breeding tools: MAS, GWAS, and CRISPR
- Real-world case studies in genomics-driven breeding success
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This panel explores the critical role of genetic stability in cannabis cultivation and how genomics is transforming breeding practices to ensure consistent, high-quality traits across generations. Panelists will discuss foundational concepts like inbreeding, hybrid vigor, and genetic bottlenecks, shedding light on the unique challenges faced in cannabis breeding. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge genomic tools and techniques that accelerate the stabilization of desirable traits, creating robust and uniform cannabis strains. Through practical applications, this session will illustrate how genomic insights can enhance reliability in cultivation, leading to greater resilience and product consistency.
Objective:
Showcase how genomics enables stable trait inheritance and faster selection processes in cannabis breeding.
Key Topics Covered:
- The role of genetic stability in consistent cannabis cultivation
- Challenges of inbreeding, hybrid vigor, and genetic bottlenecks
- Genomic tools and strategies for maintaining genetic consistency
- Practical application: Developing stable cannabis lines through genomics
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2:50 pm – 3:20 pm – Cannabis in the Geriatric Population – Laura Barrett
This lecture will focus on the safe and effective use of medical cannabis in the older adult population, addressing common age-related conditions and challenges specific to this population, including polypharmacy, altered metabolism, and potential drug interactions. The talk will provide practical guidance on dosing strategies, selecting appropriate product types, and monitoring for side effects, with a focus on improving quality of life while minimizing risks. Healthcare professionals will learn how to integrate cannabis therapies to meet the specific needs of older adults, promoting both symptom relief and overall well-being.
3:20 pm – 3:50 pm – Cannabis in the Pediatric Population – Bonni Goldstein
This lecture will focus on the use of medical cannabis in pediatric patients with epilepsy, autism, and other complex medical conditions. Dr. Goldstein will review the growing body of evidence supporting cannabinoids for treatment-resistant epilepsy, highlighting clinical outcomes, safety profiles, and dosing considerations. Special attention will be given to the role of the endocannabinoid system in autism and the use of cannabis in managing behavioral challenges in children with autism. Attendees will get practical guidance on titration strategies, drug interactions and managing side effects.
3:50 pm – 4:30 pm – Cannabis for Chronic Pain & Insomnia – Dustin Sulak
Two of the most common conditions in clinical practice for which medical cannabis is utilized are chronic pain and insomnia. Dr. Sulak will discuss the mechanisms by which cannabinoids modulate pain and improve sleep quality, highlighting the evidence for their use in conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, neuropathy, and sleep disorders. Strategies for opioid reduction will be reviewed, highlighting harm reduction and reduced mortality.
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This panel brings together industry and research leaders to explore the latest advancements in cannabis genomics and microbiome science, focusing on their transformative impact on cultivation. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge DNA sequencing technologies and how they enhance breeding programs to support genetic stability, increase disease resistance, and boost yields. The session will also dive into the role of plant-associated microbiomes, uncovering how microbial communities influence cannabis health, resilience, and pathogen resistance. Through real-world case studies and practical insights, panelists will demonstrate how these innovations are setting new standards in sustainable cannabis cultivation.
Objectives:
- Advances in Cannabis DNA Sequencing:
- Explore recent technologies and methods in cannabis DNA sequencing.
- Highlight how sequencing is revolutionizing breeding programs for disease resistance.
- Understanding Microbiomes in Plant Health:
- Examine the link between cannabis microbiomes and plant health, disease susceptibility, and pathogen resistance.
- Identify key microbial communities that promote plant resilience.
- Enhancing Disease Resistance Through Genomics:
- Discuss how genomic insights inform breeding for disease-resistant strains.
- Consider how genomics can be integrated with agronomy practices for pathogen control.
- Practical Applications in Cultivation:
- Present case studies where DNA sequencing and microbiome management have led to improved yield, health, and disease resilience.
- Discuss the scalability of these innovations for commercial cannabis growers.
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4:30 PM – 5:00 PM – Cannabis and Psychiatric Disorders – Bonni Goldstein
This lecture will provide an in-depth examination of the emerging research on medical cannabis use in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and schizophrenia. The presentation will highlight the mechanisms of action of cannabinoids within the endocannabinoid system, emphasizing their impact on mood regulation and stress response. Dr. Goldstein will review current clinical evidence, highlighting both potential benefits and risks, and will discuss the use of different cannabinoids for these challenging conditions. Healthcare professionals will gain insights into dosing strategies and therapeutic goals, as well as the importance of monitoring for adverse effects in psychiatric populations.
5:00 PM – 5:45 PM – Cannabis and Neurological Disorders – Laszlo Mechtler
This lecture will explore the emerging role of cannabis-based therapies in the treatment of various neurologic disorders. We will review the evidence supporting the use of cannabinoids for conditions such as migraine, dementia, multiple sclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Topics will include the neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties of cannabinoids, along with clinical insights on dosing, administration methods, and patient response. Special focus will be given to how cannabis can address the unique symptoms of these disorders, including pain, spasticity, cognitive decline, and nausea, providing healthcare professionals with practical guidance on integrating cannabis into neurologic care.
5:45 PM – 6:45 PM – Case Discussion Workshop – Bonni Goldstein, Dustin Sulak, Laszlo Mechtler, Laura Barrett
Attendees will be organized into small groups and provided with detailed patient scenarios that reflect a variety of clinical situations requiring cannabinoid treatment. Each group will work collaboratively to develop a comprehensive cannabinoid regimen tailored to the specific needs of the patients in their scenarios. Following this collaborative exercise, each group will present their proposed treatment plan for open discussion and feedback from faculty members and peers. This interactive format aims to deepen participants’ understanding of initiating cannabis treatment and to refine their skills in formulating effective cannabinoid regimens, ultimately enhancing their confidence in applying this knowledge in real-world patient care.
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A Meristem-based, genotype independent transformation system for Cannabis sativa has been established at the Wisconsin Crop Innovation Center (WCIC). DNA delivery in this system is primarily via Agrobacterium, however a biolistics approach has also been demonstrated. Germline transformation, with transmission of stable traits to T1 progeny, has been confirmed empirically via tdTomato imaging, RUBY expression, GUS staining of T1 progeny and further validated via PCR assays for several other genes of interest. Hundreds of independent T0 events, along with their multi-generational progeny, have been produced and analyzed from multiple genotypes. We have clearly demonstrated our germline transformation protocol has enabled both engineering and a CRISPR/Cas9 approach to successfully knockout or alter key genes in the cannabinoid, terpene, and flavonoid pathways in Type III cannabis plants. In addition to these pathways, work in powdery mildew and hop latent resistance, trichome density, yield, and other traits have also progressed. Transgenic or edited lines showing elimination, reduced, and increased amounts of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, and putative lines for powdery mildew resistance will be discussed. Our successful engineering and gene editing protocols open the door for future metabolic engineering of Cannabis sativa to fully leverage the potential of this emerging crop species.
Learning Objectives:
- Cannabis transformation process
- New traits created through gene editing and engineering
Historically, data regarding the impact of cannabis have largely been derived from observational studies of recreational consumers or acute administration studies, which in the US, used products exclusively sourced from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Despite a re-legalization for medical purposes in California in 1996, studies of medical cannabis patients, while expanding, remain extremely limited, with no long-term data available. Accordingly, in 2014, Dr. Gruber founded the Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) program, specifically designed to examine the long-term impact of medical cannabis use on a range of health-related outcomes using various methodological approaches, including clinical trials. In this presentation, Dr. Gruber will summarize important findings from these longitudinal studies, which often reveal clinical improvements over the course of treatment, and will describe how these data paved way for the MIND program’s clinical trials which are formulated to target a range of conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, Alzheimer’s-related dementia, and glioblastoma. She will discuss challenges, successes, and lessons learned in conducting some of the first clinical trials of ecologically valid, full-spectrum products, while also highlighting preliminary data from a selection of studies. Finally, Dr. Gruber will discuss exciting new projects from the Women’s Health Initiative at MIND (WHIM), the first cannabis-focused program in the US designed specifically to address women’s health.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand key differences between medical and recreational use
- Describe changes exhibited by medical cannabis (MC) patients after 3-12 months of MC treatment
- Identify potential applications of cannabinoids for a range of conditions, including women’s health
Meristem culture is an effective biotechnology tool widely employed to eliminate systemic endophytes, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi, from plants. In Cannabis sativa, endophytic contaminants can significantly affect plant health and cannabinoid yield and pose a challenge for large-scale cultivation. Meristematic tissue, located at the growing tips of plants, is free of vascular connections, where many endophytes commonly reside, and spread. Thus, meristems are an ideal source of pathogen-free plants. Through the isolation and cultivation of meristems, clean and robust cannabis clones can be developed, enhancing quality control and consistency in cannabinoid production. To evaluate the effectiveness of meristem culture in removing endophytic contaminants, advanced sequencing techniques and microbial profiling were used to compare endophytic communities before and after meristem culture.
Krona plots visualized and analyzed the endophytic loads of four cannabis strains (1512, 1354, 1513, and 1500) was evaluated using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) following both nodal and meristem intake. PDA plate indexing further identified colonies of endophytic contaminants. Plants derived from nodal tissue exhibited endophytic loads of 22-30% of the total DNA genome. Strains 1500 and 1513 showed high bacterial contamination, primarily Bacillus and Pseudomonas species, whereas strains 1512 and 1354 contained more pathogenic fungi, such as Fusarium. In contrast, plants from meristem culture exhibited a substantial reduction in endophytic load, down to 2-3%, with no pathogens detected. The presence of endophytes identified through NGS Krona plots, included Fusarium, Alternaria, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Pseudomonas, was confirmed with PDA plate indexing. These results confirm that meristem culture is an effective approach for enhancing the health and quality of cannabis strains by significantly reducing endophytic contamination.
Learning Objectives:
- Effectiveness of Meristem Culture
- Use of Advanced Profiling Techniques to analyze and visualize shifts in microbial communities
- Analyze and visualize shifts in microbial communities
This retrospective, multi-center study investigated the patterns and outcomes of medical cannabis use among pediatric and adult patients in California under direct physician supervision. Four experienced cannabis clinicians, who adhere to the medical cannabis standard of care, have collected data on over 600 patients using cannabinoid-based treatments. We partnered with the UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids for evaluation of the data. We analyzed patient diagnoses, access points (e.g., delivery vs. in-person dispensaries), preferred product formulations, cannabinoid content, patient use patterns and their correlation with specific medical conditions or symptoms.
We are still currently analyzing the data and will have results early spring 2025, which will then be published.
Our findings (so far) have revealed the following:
- Most common diagnoses in adults include chronic pain, cancer, MS, anxiety/depression and insomnia
- Most common diagnoses in the pediatric population include intractable epilepsy, autism and cancer
- Only two patients out of the over 600 that participated required emergency department visit for side effects
- The vast majority of patients are aware of the make-up of their cannabis products
- A significant number of patients report being able to reduce or eliminate prescription medications
- 83% of patients report medical cannabis to be very effective or effective
Additional findings will be presented pending completion of the study.
Learning Objectives:
- Analyze the diverse medical conditions treated with cannabis among 600+ patients and
- Explore how specific diagnoses influence product choice and treatment outcomes
- Identify the reported benefits, side effects, and barriers to access
Hop latent viroid (HLVd) is an emerging pathogen affecting hemp with potential to cause significant damage and crop loss. Since its initial detection in California in 2019, HLVd has been detected in all major hemp growing states including Colorado, Oregon, Washington and in Canada. There is limited information on the impact of HLVd on hemp biomass and yield whereas there is accumulating evidence that HLVd reduces cannabinoid levels in cannabis. HLVd is known to be transmitted mechanically to plants, however there is little information known about other transmission routes including possible arthropod vectors. Here, we investigated the impact of HLVd on hemp biomass, inflorescence, seed yield and cannabinoid levels, the ability of hemp pests, cannabis aphids and wester flower thrips to transmit HLVd, and the effect of chemical elicitors in reducing HLVd infection levels. HLVd did not have an impact on hemp biomass and yield, but it decreased levels of certain cannabinoids such as THC.
We found that cannabis aphids and thrips are able to acquire HLVd as soon as 5 minutes and maintain HLVd for several hours. Transmission assay results indicate cannabis aphids and thrips were able to transmit HLVd in hemp at a low percentage (24% and 14%, respectively). Certain chemical elicitors showed significant reduction in viroid titers compared to control treatments. Beyond potential viroid reduction, chemical elicitors such as salicylic acid, brassinolides (BR), and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) significantly increased biomass and flower production. However, SA, BR, TRIA, chlormequat chloride (CCC), and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) also reduced key cannabinoid levels, notably THC and CBD, highlighting the complexity of using chemical elicitors to control HLVd. Overall, this research developed new knowledge regarding HLVd, in an effort to manage and reduce losses to the hemp and cannabis industry in the U.S and worldwide.
Learning Objectives:
- Assess the impact of HLVd on hemp yield and cannabinoids
- Compare HLVd acquisition and transmission by two major cannabis pests, cannabis aphids and thrips
- Evaluate the efficacy of various chemical elicitors in reducing HLVd infection
Wearable EEG technology combined with AI-based analysis offer a reliable, cost-effective alternative to traditional THC percentage-based testing, enabling the objective measurement of cannabis product effects, regardless of THC content.
Results from the world’s largest multi-site EEG study with +1,000 research participations (+10K EEG scans) and in collaboration with multiple cannabis scientists across Canada, the U.S. and Europe, will be presented to further demonstrate the objectivity and effectiveness of the PEL (Psychoactive Effect Levels) metric for assessing the quality and efficacy of cannabis products, showcasing how this innovative testing method can evaluate innovative formulations with terpenes, minor cannabinoids, drug delivery systems, and extraction methods.
The application of Machine Learning to large EEG datasets recorded under specific mental states presents a significant opportunity to standardize and streamline cannabis effect research, leading to more consistent and actionable data in the industry.
Learning Objectives:
- EEG scans for measuring the PEL (Psychoactive Effect Levels) of cannabis products offer a new, more reliable quality metric
- Results from over 10,000 EEG scans of consumers using a wide range of cannabis products will be presented
Cannabis has been intertwined with the human experience for thousands of years. However, the last century of prohibition severely constrained legal breeding efforts and slowed the development of germplasm resources, leaving the full potential of hemp-based oil, fiber, and pharmaceutical products untapped. Existing cultivars remain highly heterozygous and uncompetitive in the fiber and grain markets, restricting hemp cultivation to fewer than 200,000 hectares globally. The relaxation of drug laws in recent decades has sparked widespread interest in reintroducing cannabis into agricultural systems, but progress has been hindered by a limited understanding of its genomics and breeding potential. We developed a cannabis pangenome by integrating 181 new and 12 previously released genomes, representing 156 biological samples from both male (XY) and female (XX) plants, covering varying chemotypes and photoperiod sensitivities from hemp, feral and marijuana plants. The pangenome includes 42 trio-phased and 36 haplotype-resolved, chromosome-scale assemblies, which enabled the identification of extensive genetic and structural diversity, highlighting potential breeding bottlenecks. Despite this diversity, we found cannabinoid synthase genes, which are the last step in the pathway, exhibit surprisingly low variation, even though they are embedded within highly variable regions containing non-functional paralogs and transposable elements. Additionally, we identified acyl-lipid thioesterase (ALT) gene variants that influence fatty acid chain length and are linked to the production of minor cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol varin (THCV) and cannabidiol varin (CBDV). The cannabis pangenome exposed unprecedented potential to develop novel cultivars tailored for emerging cannabinoid markets.
Learning Objectives:
- The cannabis genome contains extensive genetic and structural diversity impacting breeding efforts
- Even 200 genomes spanning diverse germplasm still does not capture all the diversity of the cannabis genome
- The cannabis pangenome reveals unprecedented potential to develop novel cultivars tailored
Background
Prostate cancer is the fourth most common cancer globally, representing 7.3% of all cases and 14.1% of male cancers. This empirical study provides a thorough examination of how cannabinoids impact prostate cancer, covering PSA levels, PET/CT scans, and patient-reported outcomes. Objectives The objectives were to assess the influence of cannabinoids on PSA levels, metabolic activity, tumor size via PET/CT scans, and patient-reported outcomes like pain levels and quality of life.
Methodology
Using a quantitative approach within a positivist paradigm, participants were recruited from Cancer Care clinics in the Eastern Cape. Inclusion criteria required a prostate cancer diagnosis and specific medical history and cannabis usage adherence. From 125 eligible individuals, 90 participants were determined through sample size calculation. Data collection involved PSA data from pathology reports, PET/CT scan results, and regular patient surveys, utilizing validated tools such as the Brief Pain Inventory and EQ5D questionnaire. Ethical standards were strictly followed, with participants providing voluntary consent. Analysis using SPSS focused on primary objectives related to PSA outcomes and tumor size evaluating PET scans. The secondary objectives included the patient related outcomes such as improved pain relief and enhanced quality of life of patients.
Learning Objectives:
- The objectives were to assess the influence of cannabinoids on PSA levels, metabolic activity, tumor size via PET/CT scans, and patient-reported outcomes such as pain levels and quality of life
Microbes that reside within cannabis tissues (endophytes) are thought to provide benefits to the plant although their presence has also raised concerns about possible negative impacts on plant quality. To determine the nature of these endophytes and their potential impact on cannabis growth, tissues of high THC-containing plants were subjected to Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). Reads were classified using a metagenomics classification algorithm that assigns a taxonomic identification to each sequencing read and estimates the abundance of each species in the sample. The tissues analyzed included 90 samples of roots, stems, leaves and flowers representing 12 genotypes. A few seed samples were also included. Scanning electron microscopic studies were performed on stem tissues to examine the xylem and pith tissues for presence of endophytes. Up to 20 genera of fungi, 9 yeasts and 18 bacterial genera were present at varying frequencies (percent of total reads of the taxon relative to total reads of that microbe group) in the tissues. The highest frequencies were generally found in the roots, followed by stems. Seeds and flowers contained an abundance of endophytic and epiphytic microbes. The most frequently detected fungal genera were Penicillium, Fusarium and Rhizophagus (Glomus) while the most abundant bacterial genera were Bacillus and Pseudomonas. Penicillium chrysogenum and Fusarium oxysporum were present in all tissue samples. The microbiome of cuttings and vegetative plants mirrored that of mother plants, suggesting that transmission of endophytes was occurring through vegetative propagation. Scanning electron microscopy of sectioned stems from mother plants revealed the presence of fungal spores of a range of species within the xylem vessel elements and pith parenchyma cells. The cocofibre substrate in which mother plants were grown greatly influenced the microbes present, particularly in roots but also in other tissues. Application of biocontrol fungi, such Trichoderma harzianum, was followed by detection in roots, stems, leaves and flowers of treated plants. Applications of this biocontrol fungus to 2 week-old rooted cuttings resulted in a partial displacement of the pre-existing microbes, thus enhancing the frequency of T. harzianum in the roots but not in stems within 4 weeks after treatment. Sterilizing the cocofibre growing medium did not influence the microbiome of cuttings grown in them. Meristem tip culture eliminated almost all fungal endophytes but bacteria were still present. However, rapid recolonization by Fusarium species during the rooting phase resulted in a predominance of this pathogen in the tissues. These findings suggest that endophytic microbes are abundant in cannabis tissues and their composition is influenced by the growing substrate, as well as by applications of biocontrol agents. Meristem-derived plants should be treated with protective microbial products to occupy the biological vacuum before being used. The transmission of endophytic fungi from cannabis stems to inflorescences likely occurs and needs to be explored further.
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Background
In many jurisdictions, medical cannabis programs present challenges for businesses and patients alike, including onerous regulations, advertising and financial
censorship, and other marketplace disadvantages. As the medical cannabis industry struggles to adapt among a patchwork of regulatory environments, the nutritional supplement sector of the hemp market continues to grow while enjoying advantages like interstate commerce and the use of conventional payment methods. Hemp customers also benefit from a more competitive and free marketplace. Novel hemp-derived product classes have emerged to meet consumers’ needs, including Cannabigerol (CBG)-dominant formulations and 2018 Farm Bill-compliant THC-containing edibles. These hemp products offer potentially- therapeutic effects for people with conditions for which cannabis is commonly used, including chronic pain and anxiety, may provide therapeutic benefits for individuals who have not responded favorably to the more commonly available CBD-dominant hemp products, and may enable greater access to the therapeutic effects of clinically-relevant doses of THC. CBG is becoming increasingly popular among consumers, yet we still have very little human clinical evidence that characterize its therapeutic effects, adverse effects, effective dosages, and typical use patterns. With preclinical studies suggesting substantial a therapeutic potential in several conditions, more human data on CBG-dominant products is needed. Additionally, increasing clinical data demonstrate substantial benefits of therapeutic cannabis use for people with dementia; the potential to achieve similar results with hemp products
remains largely unexplored.
Objective
We aimed to evaluate the reasons for use, usage patterns, therapeutic effects, adverse effects, and qualitative reports of two populations of consumers, one using CBG-dominant and another using THC-containing hemp products, both with well-characterized compositions and dosing formats amenable to reporting specific dosages.
Methods
In partnership with principle investigator Dr. Carrie Cuttler of Washington State University, we conducted an online survey of individuals who have ordered CBG-dominant products (liquid, capsule, or gummy) from Healer. Additionally, in partnership with Leaf411, a cannabis nurse hotline, Healer provides ongoing support to customers of Healer Respite, a THC-containing hemp-derived product most commonly used for behavioral symptoms of dementia. Details of each case are recorded by the nurse consultants and the data is aggregated.
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This presentation will discuss variability in regulatory action limits relative to cannabis flower, concentrate, and edible products across the United States. We will also examine standard methods both quantitative and qualitative, created by Manufacturers and standards writing organizations. Discussion will include the use of spiked surrogate samples or hemp instead of cannabis due to the illegality of crossing state lines with ‘cannabis’ and how this may not be representative of natural contamination of compliance samples ‘as received’ or ‘as sampled’. We will briefly discuss the importance of sampling/subsampling homogeneity in cannabis, including across different matrices. Discussion will include the requirements in the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard and how these can be supplemented for the cannabis industry. Lastly, the common techniques of analysis will be compared. If time allows, a brief discussion of PT and NIST QAP results will be reviewed.
Learning Objectives:
- ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for method validation and verification will be covered with examples from internally validated methods
- Audience will learn what IS and IS NOT required by the standard
- Best practice & standard methods with examples specific to cannabis will be covered
Learning Objectives:
- Showcase the 7 main steps where potency can be lost through the cannabis beverage supply chain
- Input > infusion tech > Packaging > Formulation > Co-manufacturer > Lab > Distribution / retail
- What spec we need for each step to produce high quality cannabis beverages.
In most states with legal cannabis frameworks, testing for five different mycotoxins – aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, & G2 and ochratoxin A is required. The levels of ochratoxin A and the combined levels of aflatoxin compounds must not exceed 20 ppb to achieve a passing result. This presentation examines detection and failure rates for these mycotoxins in cannabis flower across twelve US states (CA, CO, HI, IL, MD, MO, MS, NJ, NM, NV, OR, and WA). This work also highlights a growing body of literature that suggests mycotoxins derived from Fusarium spp. are prevalent microbial contaminants in cannabis flower and cannabis products.
Learning Objectives:
- The five mycotoxins that most states currently test for rarely exceed the 20 ppb action level in cannabis flowers
- There are other mycotoxins derived from Fusarium spp. that are more commonly found in cannabis flowers and cannabis products
Fibrosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer arising from fibrous connective tissues. It presents a significant therapeutic challenge. A recent study on the overexpression of the human FAM111B gene in fibrosarcoma compared normal epithelial tissues, suggesting it may represent a viable therapeutic target. It is common knowledge that many studies have reported on the anti-cancer properties of Cannabidiol (CBD). However, the molecular mechanisms or targets by with it elicits this property is not fully understood. Consequently, this study investigated the potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) to downregulate FAM111B expression and its implications for apoptosis and cell cycle regulation in fibrosarcoma cells (HT1080) compared to non-cancerous cells (FG0). Utilizing quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analysis, we established the IC50 values for CBD in HT1080 and FG0 cells. These findings indicate that CBD affects both cell lines with comparable selectivity, suggesting its potential as an adjuvant in cancer therapy.
CBD treatment led to a notable downregulation of FAM111B at both mRNA and protein levels across both cell lines. In HT1080 cells, CBD significantly modulated key regulators of the cell cycle and apoptosis, including Cyclin B1, p21, and BAG3. The upregulation of p21, coupled with the downregulation of Cyclin B1 and BAG3, resulted in an increased arrest of cells in the G0 phase and elevated apoptosis rates. Importantly, CBD did not alter the expression of FAM111A, a closely related gene. Our findings suggest that CBD effectively targets FAM111B, influencing critical cellular pathways associated with cell cycle and apoptosis in fibrosarcoma. This research demonstrates the potential therapeutic utility of CBD in the treatment of fibrosarcoma while also demonstrating its impact on non-cancerous cells. Further investigation will be essential to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and to assess CBD’s potential as an adjunct in cancer therapy.
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize the established anti-cancer properties of Cannabidiol (CBD) while identifying the existing gaps in understanding its molecular mechanisms of action
- Explore the justification for researching CBD’s influence on FAM111B expression and its potential implications for cancer therapy
The contents of cannabinoid compounds in cannabis flower and cannabis-derived products is the basis of their value, but many people distrust claims of cannabis potency. The standardization of these contents requires their accurate analytical measurement, a process that uses references such as Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) to establish concentrations of cannabinoids. We report the largest collaborative study to investigate the variability between CRMs from multiple vendors and between cannabis testing labs in multiple US states and Canada, contextualized within the results of shelf testing and data from cannabis testing labs. Our presentation compares the sources of variance in the testing of cannabis for cannabinoids, which has been shown to differ from their labeled content by up to 50%, with the discrepancies in CRM concentrations.
32 cannabinoid CRM products from five companies were analyzed at five independent ISO 17025 accredited testing labs. We arbitrarily selected particular lots of CRMs to use as calibration standards, and labs prepared diluted solutions of each CRM to analyze. Errors from the expected concentrations of these prepared solutions derive from the variations between CRMs, convoluted with error from preparation and analysis of solutions.
The five labs returned 127 deduced concentrations with tight precision, with an average standard deviation of 2.8% of the determined value. The concentrations we deduced for the majority of the solutions agreed closely with their certificates, with the root of mean of squared errors equal to 2.73% of the certified values. We discovered that consistency can be achieved between CRM products, and between measurements performed in multiple labs that use different operating procedures. We also found several larger discrepancies in the concentrations of important cannabinoids, including THCA, that unscrupulous labs might exploit.
Learning Objectives:
- Why do we use Certified Reference Materials to measure cannabinoids?
- How consistent can different labs and manufacturers be with their measurements and products?
- What are the fundamental limits to measuring cannabinoids, and are these measurements “fit to purpose”?
For many years, Cannabis has been widely used in various countries as palliative and complementary treatment, providing therapeutic support alongside conventional medical interventions for a range of conditions. Over the past decade, my lab has focused on investigating whether Cannabis can serve as a primary pharmaceutical treatment for cancer and other diseases, beyond its traditional supportive roles.
Our journey began with the understanding that Cannabis is not a single drug but a versatile plant with multifaceted therapeutic effects, extending far beyond the actions of any single cannabinoid. With that we published our first paper “The heterogeneity and complexity of Cannabis extracts as antitumor agents”, which reflected how specific Cannabis extracts can impair cancer cell survival and proliferation and induce apoptosis, but their effects are highly variable, depending both on the extract’s composition and on the unique characteristics of the cancer cells.
From that point, we began cracking down on the specific and accurate combinations of molecules that target particular cancer types. We learned that sometimes a distinct combination of metabolites is required, while other times a rare cannabinoid is the underlying cause for the observed effects. At times, the metabolites affect the cancer cells directly and at times they interact with other cells and indirectly affect the cancer cells, for example immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. In such cases, Cannabis molecules can be ombined with immunotherapy to enhance its efficacy. Similarly, these molecules can be combined with chemotherapy to overcome multidrug resistance by modulating efflux pumps, enhancing drug retention in cancer cells.
Our decade-long research has shown that Cannabis, with its complex and diverse composition, holds great promise as treatment for cancer. By identifying precise combinations of cannabinoids and metabolites, we are exploring how Cannabis can enhance the efficacy of conventional therapies like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, providing a novel approach to combating cancer.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain how Cannabis can enhance the efficacy of conventional therapies like chemotherapy and immunotherapy
We have developed a standard practice to perform toxicological risk assessments of exogenous ingredients used in cannabinoid formulations for vaporization devices to reject or accept with calculated acceptable use limits based on the available scientific literature and new approach methodologies. Using this practice, this study aims to evaluate the potential risks these additives pose to users and identify harmful compounds that are currently present in vaporizer products on the market. Through quantitative GC/MS analysis of a targeted list of compounds in products from multiple terpene manufacturers, this study detected various toxic additives that could compromise consumer health.
This session will review the safety assessment framework adopted as a global standard by ASTM. It will highlight specific higher-risk ingredients and identify how prevalent they are in vaporization products currently in the cannabis market. The findings highlight an urgent need for a toxicological review of non-cannabinoid additives used in inhalable products to reduce potential health risks. By implementing rigorous safety standards, the cannabis industry can reduce the risk to consumer health, prevent over-regulation and flavor bans, and support the longevity of the industry.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn about the ASTM newly adopted risk assessment standard for cannabis vaporizer additives
- Gain insights into specific compounds found in vape additives that pose potential toxicological risks
Combination therapy, a treatment modality that studies the effect of two or more drugs is the most common strategy used to overcome drug resistance in cancer. Cannabinoids have been proven to be potential anticancer agents. Terpenes have also been demonstrated to exhibit anticancer activity.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of combinations of various cannabinoids and terpenes against drug resistant lung and breast cancer. Several cannabinoids and terpenes such as cannabidiol (CBD), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG) and β-caryophyllene (BC), bisabolol, myrcene, linalool, limonene, geraniol, neralidol, α-pinene, α-terpineol, γ-terpinene respectively were screened for their anticancer activity against MDA MB 231 DOX RT, H1975 OSM RT, PDX Lung cancer cell lines using 2D cytotoxicity and 3D spheroids assay. It was found that the cytotoxic potential of combinations of cannabinoids with BC increased by 10 folds in comparison to their individual anticancer activity. The combinations that exhibit synergistic action were determined from combination index (CI) values using compusyn software. Other assays such as colony formation, wound healing, apoptotic assay, cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry elucidated the possible mechanism underlying the synergism of the combinations investigated. CBC+BC was proven to be the most potent combination from all the in-vitro studies and hence was further evaluated in in-vivo tumor xenografts. Briefly, 5 million MDA MB 231 DOX RT cells were injected by S.C route in the right flank region of BALB/c nude mice.
The animals were treated after the tumor volume reached 180-200mm3. The animals were administered CBC (15mg/kg, i.p.), BC (100mg/kg, i.p.) and CBC+BC thrice a week for two weeks. The tumor volume in the combination group was reduced by 2 folds relative to individual treatments and 4 folds relative to control. Western blot analysis of tumor xenografts showed downregulation of apoptotic markers such as PARP, mTOR, pAMPK, Survivin, autophagy markers such as LC 3, Glypican 5 and migration markers such as vimentin and Integrin. Immune check point proteins such as PD-L1 and PD-1 were also downregulated by combination treatment. This was further validated by qPCR. In conclusion, CBC induces programmed cell death in tumors and induces autophagy whereas BC inhibits migration and thus this combination was able to overcome resistance than individual therapies in a synergistic fashion.
Learning Objectives:
- The audience will get an understanding of the role of Terpenes and Cannabinoids in cancer
- The audience will get a better understanding the mechanisms of action of Terpenes and also CBD in overcoming resistance in Triple negative breast cancer
Bellwether signs of the widespread negative implications of readily available high-concentration or nearly pure cannabinoid products have existed for approximately a decade. The adverse events were not well understood, and thus, not well characterized by medical personnel, creating unamplified public health concerns and a significant knowledge gap. Ramifications of the 2018 Agricultural Improvement Act include the over-production of CBD which, subsequently, led to the manufacture of semi-synthetic cannabinoids. These tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) analogs include structural alterations in the position and number of double bonds in the alicyclic ring, acetylation of the hydroxyl on the aromatic ring, and/or changing the number of carbons in the alkyl side chain. They are marketed as “legal” and “hemp-derived” and have largely unknown potency and efficacy. Products oftentimes contain unlabeled and mislabeled compounds. Consequently, consumers experience untoward or unexpected adverse events, which some refer to as “greening out”. Since the unregulated cannabis industry is continuously evolving to produce new semi-synthetic cannabinoids, new methods are needed to analyze cannabis products for quality assurance purposes.
Objective
To develop and validate a method for the separation and quantitation of thirty-two phytocannabinoids and semi-synthetic cannabinoids in e-cigarette formulations (e-liquids) and edible products, to include commonly available isobaric compounds and acetate esters.
Methods
Products were purchased as part of a surveillance program, submitted from consumers experiencing adverse events, or confiscated in schools across Virginia. A liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method using a Shimadzu LCMS 8050 with a Shim Pack Volex C18 column held at 40ºC and mobile phase of 0.1% formic acid in 17:83 water:methanol was employed. The inter- and intra-precision and bias, carryover, linearity, limit of quantitation (LOQ), post-preparative stability, and dilution integrity were evaluated. A seven-point calibration curve from 2.5 – 250 mg/mL of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Δ8- THC, Δ10-THC, Δ6a,10a-THC, cannabichromene (CBC), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabigerol (CBG), CBD, cannabinol (CBN), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA-A), hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabutol (THCB), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP), Δ8-THCP, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabihexol (THCH), CBD-di-acetate, CBN-acetate, Δ9-THC-acetate, and HHC-acetate with deuterated internal standards of Δ9-THC-d3, CBD-d3, Δ9-THC-acetate-d3, and CBD-di-acetate-d3 was used.
Learning Objectives:
- Able to identify the common alterations to the THC molecule and associated issues of product quality
- Able to share and/or adapt the presented method to improve the analysis of cannabinoid products
- Able to advocate for science-based policy knowing ramifications of unregulated cannabinoids
Objective
To utilize high-throughput screening and regenerative AI analysis to identify naturally derived and synthetically modified cannabinoids, terpenoids, and flavonoids with potential efficacy and safety profiles for treating cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, seizures, and other conditions.
Methods
In collaboration with Texas A&M University and sponsored by Rare Earth Genomics (REG), we focused on utilizing hemp-derived molecules for our research. Advanced automation and screening platforms at our core facilities were employed, including Beckman Echo acoustic dispensers integrated into Access workstations with Cytomat cell culture incubators for 24/7 compound addition. The Tecan Evo 200 workstation with multimode readers and high-capacity Liconic incubators facilitated rapid dispensing and environmental control. A dual-arm Beckman-Coulter Biomek i7 liquid handling platform enabled precise, high-throughput liquid transfers using span-8, 96-multichannel, and single-channel dispensing heads. High-content imaging was conducted using the GE Healthcare IN Cell Analyzer 6000 and Molecular Devices ImageXpress Micro Confocal Microscope, providing detailed analysis of 2D, 3D, and spheroid cultures.
We integrated regenerative AI algorithms with Texas A&M’s large drug databases to perform comparative analyses and pathway mapping, assisting in candidate selection for testing. Additionally, we are collaborating to obtain a Texas Compassionate Use Program license to study THC and psychoactive compounds, aiming to expand our research into these areas.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how high-throughput screening and AI accelerate therapeutic cannabinoid discovery
- Understand Texas A&M and Rare Earth Genomics’ collaboration on hemp-derived molecules and THC studies
- Explore advanced automation and imaging technologies in cannabis-derived drug development
Join Dr. Sulak for a morning practice of gentle movement and awareness to care for your body and mind after an exciting conference. Drawing from yoga, chi kung, and osteopathy, Dr. Sulak leads the group through a series of simple practices appropriate for all levels of fitness and experience. Participants are invited to enhance their practice with complimentary Healer hemp gummies, available at the event. Increase your energy flow and center your consciousness with Dr. Sulak and your CannMed colleagues before saying farewell.
ATTENDANCE IS LIMITED. THE OPPORTUNITIES ARE NOT.
