We are excited to announce the schedule of the CannMed 24 Innovation & Investment Summit, which is scheduled to take place from May 12–15 at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in Marco Island, Florida. This summit is the perfect platform for industry professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and researchers to network, collaborate, and explore the latest innovations and investment opportunities in the cannabis industry.
Professional Development Workshops and Tiki Talk Networking Lunch will be held on Monday, May 13th. Presentations curated by our Advisory Board and the Surfside Social networking event will be held on Tuesday, May 14th.
The Pivotal Role of Nurses in Advancing the Medical Cannabis Industry: Bridging the Gap between Patient Care, Education, and Product Development
Nurses have long been recognized as the most trusted profession in the United States, holding a unique position at the crossroads of healthcare, education, and patient advocacy. This panel aims to delve deep into the untapped potential of nurses in shaping the evolving landscape of the medical cannabis industry. Comprised of a diverse group of experts in nursing, cannabis research, and healthcare policy, the panel will discuss a multi-pronged approach for leveraging the skills and insights of nurses in patient care, education, and product formulation.
In 2023, the HHS took a monumental step in recommending reclassifying cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, signaling a potential shift in federal regulation. As we move through 2024 the landscape of cannabis reform extends beyond rescheduling, with a surge in congressional support evident from over a dozen filed bills.
Join our expert panel of scientists, legal professionals, cannabis industry executives for an insightful discussion on the economic prospects, research considerations, and regulatory frameworks in the evolving cannabis legalization landscape. Prepare for the expanded horizons of cannabis policy in this thought-provoking exploration of the future.
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The Cannabis Industry – Regulations that Make Sense and Kill Monsters
Join in the conversation with our panelists, as they discuss our current challenges in regulating the cannabis industry. Divergence in state-specific regulations; changes in regulatory environments; chemical & biological contaminants; enforcement issues, sampling & allowable methods; biological pesticides -yes/no?; differences and intersection points of standards & regulations as put forward by the FDA, USP, & ASTM; and the “monster” of lab shopping.
Join us for a celebratory kickoff to the CannMed 24 Summit, complete with appetizers, drinks, and networking.
Sponsored By:
Who is the Cannabis Nurse – Breakfast Discussion Panel
Join us for an enlightening breakfast discussion panel, proudly sponsored by the American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA), focusing on “Who is the Cannabis Nurse.” Led by ACNA industry experts, this session will delve into the vital role of cannabis nurses, exploring their scope, standards, and diverse contributions. Through compelling storytelling segments, gain firsthand insights from ACNA members, including academia perspectives, innovative product development, entrepreneurial journeys, hospital setting insights, and advanced practice roles. This panel guarantees to inspire and inform. Seize this opportunity to expand your knowledge and network in the cannabis healthcare realm.
- 8:30 am – 8:35 am – Welcome and Introductions: Bonni Goldstein
- 8:35 am – 9:15 am – Endocannabinoid Physiology: Dustin Sulak
- 9:15 am – 10:00 am – The Cannabis Plant: Phytocannabinoids and Terpenes: Ethan Russo
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM – Funding Innovation in Cannabis and Cannabinoids
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM – Cannabis Intellectual Property: A Moving Target
9:30 AM – 10:00 AM – Perspectives on Production: Cultivation, Chemistry and More
10:15 AM – 10:45 AM – Molecules, the Future of Cannabis?
10:45 AM – 11:15 AM – Implications on Cannabis Rescheduling: Now and in the Future
11:15 AM – 11:45 AM – Cannabis and Cannabinoids: Where to From Here?
Sponsored By:
- 10:15 am – 10:55 am – Clinical Applications of Medicinal Cannabis: Bonni Goldstein
- 10:55 am – 11:30 am – Medicinal Cannabis Delivery Methods and Product Selection: Eloise Theisen
Join us for an exclusive exhibitor gathering during the May 13th Lunch break. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the beach, this event offers a unique fusion of business and relaxation where each exhibitor is represented by a charming tiki stand.
Exhibitor Tiki Stands:
Explore each exhibitor’s dedicated tiki stand where you can discover innovative solutions, forge new partnerships, and explore industry insights.
Reception-Style Lunch:
Savor an array of culinary delights thoughtfully curated to cater to diverse palates, all while mingling with like-minded peers.
Tropical Libations:
Complementary tropical beverages and handcrafted cocktails will be served to complement the beachy atmosphere and inspire meaningful conversations.
Passport Program:
Collect stamps from each exhibitor’s tiki stand to earn entry into a drawing for exclusive prizes.
Sponsored By:
- 1:00 pm – 1:30 pm – Special Considerations: Cannabis for Pediatric Patients: Bonni Goldstein
- 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm – Overview of Extraction, Importance of Product Formulation: Ethan Russo
- 2:00 pm – 2:35 am – Treating Chronic Pain with Cannabis: Dustin Sulak
- 2:35 pm – 3:15 pm – Cannabis for Neurological Disorders with Focus on Dementia: Ethan Russo
Some form of cannabis legalization has passed in 75% of US states and 25% of countries worldwide. As legal cannabis cultivation proliferates globally, research into best practices has expanded greatly, leading to improved methods of cannabis horticulture.
Join our panel of expert cultivators and scientists to learn the leading methods for increasing production and profitability. Panel discussion topics will include crop steering, cannabis lighting, optimal nutrients, and the role of genetics and breeding. Audience members are encouraged to participate in an open discussion where they can ask questions of the expert panel.
Sponsored By:
- 3:15 pm – 3:45 pm – Phytocannabinoid Dosing Strategies: Dustin Sulak
- 3:45 pm – 4:10 pm – Special Considerations: Cannabis for the Elderly: Eloise Theisen
- 4:10 pm – 4:30 pm – Drug-Drug Interactions and Side Effects: Bonni Goldstein
- 4:30 pm – 5:00 pm – Q & A
3:30 PM – 3:55 PM – Residual Solvent Testing – Mitigating Laboratory Contamination & 5 Minute Q&A
3:55 PM – 4:20 PM – Terpene Testing – Tips, Tricks, and Backflushing & 5 Minute Q&A
4:20 PM – 4:45 PM – Input Testing – Ensuring Product Quality for Producers and Growers & 5 Minute Q&A
4:45 PM – 5:30 PM – Understanding the Struggles Laboratories Face in the Cannabis Testing Market
Sponsored By:
Cannabinoid Medicine: Opportunities, Challenges, and How to De-Risk the Pharmaceutical Drug Development Process
Cannabinoid medicine is at the cross-roads. Having come a long way from its roots in cultivation, cannabinoid drug development has entered the world of pharmaceutical R&D and drug development. Making this transition comes with its unique challenges and opportunities. As the scientific evidence is building up, the questions of due diligence in drug development, clearing the pathway for regulatory approvals, and de-risking investment are now front and center.
Join our expert panel discussion on the considerations that underpin the development of cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals. Our panel of esteemed experts will explore opportunities, challenges, and ways (for big pharma and emerging biotech alike) to de-risk investment in cannabinoid medicines development, from formulation and delivery, to regulatory hurdles and clinical trials, with a focus on differentiating innovation.
Sponsored By:
Savor authentic Cuban cuisine on the white sand beach, while enjoying the rich colors and lively music of Old Havana.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is an enigmatic constellation of symptoms and signs first reported in 2004 in Australia, consisting of intractable vomiting, abdominal pain and hot water bathing behavior that represents one of the few true contraindications to cannabis usage. CHS solely occurs in the context of heavy chronic use of cannabis or products containing high amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or other CB1 receptor agonists. The syndrome is increasingly identified, particularly in the USA, where estimates of its prevalence range from 350K to 2.5M affected patients.
Learning Objectives:
- Defining diagnostic criteria of CHS
- Understanding its genetic basis
- Myth busting spurious claims on its etiology
Hop latent viroid (HLVd), a subviral pathogen from the family Pospiviroidae, is a major threat to the global cannabis industry and is the causative agent for “dudding disease”. Infected plants can often be asymptomatic for a period of growth and then develop symptoms such as malformed and yellowing leaves, as well as stunted growth. During flowering, HLVd-infected plants show reduced levels of valuable metabolites. This study was undertaken to expand our basic knowledge of HLVd infectivity, transmission, and host range.
Learning Objectives:
- New Insights into Hop Latent Viroid Detection
- Hop Latent Viroid Infectivity
- Hop Latent Viroid Host Range
- Hop Latent Viroid Transmission
Meristem-based, genotype independent transformation systems have been established at the Wisconsin Crop Innovation Center (WCIC) for soybean (Glycine max L.), cow pea (Vigna unguiculata L.), dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), and Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) among others. DNA delivery in these systems is primarily via Agrobacterium tumefaciens, however a biolistics approach has also been demonstrated. Germline transformation with transmission of transgenes to T1 progeny have been confirmed empirically via RFP imaging, RUBY expression, GUS staining of T1 progeny and further validated via PCR assays. We have modified these methods to successfully engineer and edit Cannabis sativa, an otherwise recalcitrant species. Hundreds of independent T0 events have been produced along with their T1 progeny. Multiple genotypes have been engineered using this process at the WCIC and the methodology, results, and future direction will be discussed. Data will focus on a CRISPR knockout of the CBDAS gene in a Type III cannabis plant and its effects on chemotype.
Learning Objectives:
- We will discuss cannabis transformation and editing methodology
- current data on a number gene targets that we have introduced into cannabis, including a knockout of the CBDAS gene and chemotype results
The cannabis plant is an incredible source of therapeutic compounds, and in recent years selective breeding efforts have helped consumers access a variety of previously rare naturally-occurring cannabinoids like CBG and THCV. The acidic cannabinoids are receiving more attention as powerful tools, and old assumptions about the effects of combining THC and CBD are being questioned. The cannabinoids are versatile in treating a wide range of symptoms and disease processes, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to decide which type of cannabis may be best suited for a given patient.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the clinically-relevant pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions among major cannabinoids
- Understand the complex interactions between THC and CBD that go beyond standard beliefs of synergistic therapeutic effects and reduction of adverse effects
- Develop a strategic framework for using THC, CBD, CBG, THCV, and acidic cannabinoids for product design and patient treatment
Hop latent viroid (HLVd) is a plant pathogen that currently poses a major threat to producers of high Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabis plants. There have been no previously published studies to gain insight into how the viroid can spread, the impact of sanitizing chemicals on viroid survival (based on the integrity of the RNA molecule that is detectable by RT-PCR amplification), and other aspects of its biology on cannabis plants. In this research, the distribution of HLVd in affected plants and in growing facilities was determined. The pathogen was detected in asymptomatic stock (mother) plants, in vegetatively propagated cuttings derived from them, and in emerging roots from cuttings. Transmission of the viroid through injured stem tissues and plant-to-plant spread from roots growing in hydroponic cultivation systems was demonstrated.
Learning Objectives:
- The distribution of Hop latent viroid within different tissues of cannabis plants will be revealed
- The pathogen is widespread in affected plants
- There are some chemical products that can degrade the RNA present in Hop latent viroid
- The viroid is extremely tolerant to environmental extremes
Endometriosis is a disease that affects women and those assigned female at birth. It can occur in adolescents, postmenopausal people and all ethnicities, races, or color. It’s prevalence is 10 to 15%; it is probably toward the 15% or higher if one includes the aforementioned populations. Endometriosis peaks in prevalence at ages 25 to 35, although with increasing awareness of the disease, these patients are presenting at earlier ages, as early as adolescence. However, people still have a diagnosis delay of 4-11 years. It is a disease that can impact the entire support system.
This talk will describe endometriosis and its clinical signs and symptoms. The etiology is unclear at this time and our current conventional treatment modalities are mediocre at best. It has been postulated to fit the theory of clinical endocannabinoid deficiency condition (CED). What is a CED? Is endometriosis a CED condition? What does the literature say or suggest? Is cannabis uniquely suited to treat the many aspects of it?
Learning Objectives:
- Understand Endometriosis and its Signs and Symptoms
- What does the literature say about cannabis and endometriosis?
Our research is based on the hypothesis that when formulated correctly, the industrial hemp residues remaining after cannabinoid extractions can be used to produce effective biopesticides. Our technology relies on terpene-rich industrial hemp by-products formulated into a shelf-stable nanoemulsion. The objectives of the research reported here were to test efficacy of these rich sources of bioactive natural products formulated as a nanoemulsion for 1) control of diseases and 2) control of insect pests.
Learning Objectives:
- Hemp processing by-products contain bioactive natural products that can be formulated as a natural biopesticide.
- Nanoemulsions from hemp processing by-products can be used to control powdery mildew diseases.
- Nanoemulsions from hemp processing by-products inhibit insect growth and development.
Despite growing interest in the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, their development has historically been marred by poor clinical trial design, lack of product standardization, absence of placebo controls, and overly broad disease categorization. These limitations have hindered the progression of reliable, evidence-based cannabinoid therapies.
Learning Objectives:
- Analyzing the Efficacy, Safety, and Specificity of Standardized Cannabinoid Formulations (late breaking research)
- Understanding the Importance of Rigorous Clinical Trial Design in Cannabinoid Research
Dementia is currently estimated to affect nearly 6 million adults in the US with an annual healthcare spend in excess of $400 billion. Given the aging population and the lack of a known cure for this chronic disease, there have been increased efforts to identify potential treatment options over the last decade. Recent pharmaceutical treatments offer some hope though fall short of providing a true cure for this disease. In their quest to identify other potential treatment options, researchers have begun to explore the use of MC therapy given the growing body of evidence that cannabinoids may be useful in treating many of the comorbidities associated with this disease.
The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of medical cannabis (MC) on patients diagnosed with dementia through a retrospective review, focusing on:
- Evaluating Efficacy
- Tolerability
- Improvements in various aspects
Cannabis is widely used for medicinal and recreational purposes, however, there is a lack of understanding about its effects on human physiology, medical outcomes, and concerns about consistency and reproducibility of the derived products. These concerns are driven primarily by the inherent chemical complexity of a biological organism. What makes whole-plant products more challenging is that they are not just chemically complex, but also chemically variable. This variation is due to a combination of the genetic background of the plant, as well as the environment in which it is grown. In order to produce reproducibly consistent products, it is critical that they be derived from genetically stable plants grown under uniform conditions.
- Genomics-enhanced breeding
- Profile-specific cannabis
- Genome editing
- Epigenetics
Cannabis‑responsive™ (C-Res™) biomarkers are metabolites found in saliva of patients that change in response to medical cannabis (MC) treatment. This objective technology characterizes treatment as successful when C-Res™ values shift to the physiological range determined by typically-developing control groups, and is especially relevant for medical conditions where evaluation of treatment currently relies on subjective evaluation. In a proof-of-concept study, we have demonstrated that the levels of C-Res™ biomarkers found in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) shift towards the physiological levels detected in typically developing (TD) children in response to successful physician-directed MC treatment (Siani-Rose et al, 2021 and 2022).
Learning Objectives:
- Identify biomarkers distinguishing ASD and TD groups
- Show the phytochemical entourage effect
- Demonstrate that THC and CBD are associated with two distinct groups of C-Res™ biomarkers, while CBG is associated with some biomarkers from both groups
The cannabis industry has come to recognize a moisture content of 10% -14% as the ideal range for cannabis flower. However, this range may be inaccurate due to deficiencies associated with the method that has become the industry standard for calculating these values. Cannabis material contains a high concentration of volatile and semi-volatile compounds which may cause moisture results to be skewed abnormally high when a traditional loss on drying (LoD) technique is used. As such, our laboratory conducted a study where several different moisture determination techniques were utilized, to compare moisture values.
- Understand the importance of moisture content in cannabis flower analysis
- Explain the proposed standard method for determining moisture content
The purpose of this study is to create an ongoing compendium of cannabis product recalls by state and perform analyses within and among states to make general observations, identify historic trends, and identify gaps to enhance consumer awareness and safety. Product recalls are one of many tools that are used to protect cannabis patients and consumers. There are many issues that may cause a product recall, such as a test that detects a chemical or microbial contaminant that exceeds the action level.
Learning Objectives:
- The location, quality, and complete listing of cannabis recalls varies state to state
- The primary reason that caused a recall was due to a required test failure
- Further research must be conducted after obtaining additional recalls via Freedom of Information Act requests
Despite the recent popularity of cannabis phytochemicals in the marketplace, little research has been conducted on basic characterization of many of them beyond Δ9-THC, CBD, CBG and CBN. We sought to understand some of the in vitro pharmacology, physicochemical characteristics, DMPK/ADME profiles and in vivo toxicity of the following phytochemicals; Δ8-THCV, Δ9-THCV, CBDV, CBCV, CBGV, CBC and cannflavin a. This initial data set and approach is critical for guiding future studies elucidating potential health benefits and identifying the characteristics that can be approved upon with medicinal chemistry towards viable therapeutics.
Learning Objectives:
- Pharmacological, physicochemical and basic toxicological characteristics of phytochemicals
- How this approach benefits development of phytochemical candidates for health products or as therapeutics
- How medicinal chemistry and modeling can be used to improve upon these phytochemicals
We report the presence of Endotoxin in high and low CFU/g cannabis flower samples. In some jurisdictions, cannabis samples over 100,000 CFU/g of total aerobic count, are prioritized for decontamination using ozone, E-beam, X-ray or gamma ray exposure. While these methods are well known for reducing viable colony forming units, they are less effective at removing the DNA or endotoxin. Less is known about the residual endotoxin levels that might exist on such decontaminated products.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the prevalence associated with endotoxins on cannabis flower
- Understand the risks associated with endotoxins on cannabis flower
Industrial hemp roots are rich in various non-cannabinoid types of phytochemicals including phenolics, alkaloids, phytosterols, and triterpenoids. However, the biological activities of these compounds are not well studied, which hindered the development of hemp roots-based functional ingredients. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of a panel of non-cannabinoid phytochemicals isolated from a hemp roots extract. Representative chemotypes of compounds included cannflavins A and B (flavonoids), dadahol A (lignan), indole-3-carboxaldehyde (alkaloid), stigmast-4-en-3-one (phytosterol), and friedelin (triterpenoid).
Learning Objectives:
- Phytochemical constituents of hemp roots (e.g., cannabinoids, phenolics, alkaloids, phytosterols, and triterpenoids)
- Anti-inflammatory effects of hemp root compounds including cannflavins
- Potential nutraceutical and cosmeceutical applications of hemp roots
The popularity of cannabinoids has increased, and many companies are filling the demand for such products. With the increased number of suppliers comes products that are used for consumption. Many products on the market have some form of testing to ensure the product is acceptable for use, although many companies get bare bones testing which does not test for uncommon contaminants that can cause harm to the human body during smoking/inhalation. The cannabinoid market is unregulated and is up to reputable companies to set a standard that will ensure clean cannabinoid products.
Learning Objectives:
- When the quality of cannabinoids decreases and contaminants increase, cells show greater cytotoxic effects expressed by the subpar products,
- So these types of cannabinoids could be harming consumers
Phytochemicals from cannabis exhibit therapeutic promise in impeding the progression of neurodegenerative conditions. Specifically, CBD and cannflavins can hinder enzymes integral to the synthesis of arachidonic acid from the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol which acts as a natural suppressor of neuroinflammation, thereby alleviating neuropathologies in models of neurodegenerative disorders. Encouraged by the favorable impact of cannflavins in an initial screening involving mutant Caenorhabditis elegans models for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia, our research group opted to further investigate the potential effects of both cannflavins and cannabinoids in alleviating neuro-motor ailments. This led to an examination using a Zebrafish model exhibiting a broad spectrum of ALS-like symptoms induced by the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA). The restoration of impaired motility in zebrafish larvae due to BMAA-induced neuronal dysfunction by the tested compounds suggests a compelling rationale for potentially extending their evaluation in clinical trials to a wider range of ALS patients and validates this screening tool for the discovery of novel neurodegeneration therapeutics.
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Complex mixtures of cannabis for pharmaceutical development
Cannabis production and consumption continues to grow across the world as more states and countries legalize access to cannabis. The ever-increasing access has lead to an explosion of new diverse flavor and aroma classes of cannabis cultivars. These aromas vary from the classic woody, herbal, spicey, and gassy to exotic citrus, tropical, berry, and even savory varietals. However, the current chemical understanding of the chemistry behind these robust aromatic notes is lacking. Historically it had been attributed primarily to terpenes and terpenoids with little if any emphasis on other flavorant classes. We highlight key classes of non-terpenoid flavorant compounds that produce specific aromas, ranging from “sweet or fruity” to “savory or chemical”
Learning Objectives:
- The chemical origins of fruity exotic cannabis aromas
- The chemical origins of savory exotic cannabis aromas
- Possible applications of these discoveries and how this could be utilized for strain validation
Cannabis is a short day (SD) photoperiodic flowering plant whose inflorescences produce valuable medicines. At least two loci have been identified in cannabis which are responsible for the SD photoperiodic flowering response and consequently the autoflowering or fast flowering phenotypes. Yet, the specific functional genes within these loci have not been identified. In SD plants, CONSTANS, which is enhanced by critical daylength gated proteins that are expressed during short days, acts as a bifunctional regulator of flower inhibition or genesis by regulating FT (florigen).
Learning Objectives:
- Understanding CDL-gated positive enhancers of flowering will:
- Yield genes that are predictive of performance
- Help to clarify the conserved mechanisms of flowering in SD plants
- Clarify the incomplete dominance of the autoflowering allele and photoperiod phenotypes
Get ready to unwind and connect in style at the CannMed 24 Surfside Social. This event offers the opportunity to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, while continuing to collaborate with fellow attendees.
Private Beach Space: CannMed 24 attendees will have access to an exclusive private beach space, loaded with activities and amenities.
DJ in Paradise: From chill beats to energetic tunes, a skilled DJ will set the perfect tone for the day.
Complementary Beach Essentials: Beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels will be available whether you want to lounge in the shade, soak in the sun, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean.
Water Activities: Up for something more active? Explore the clear ocean waters with kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.
Exciting Games: Channel your competitive spirit Choose from a selection of classic beach games, and challenge your fellow attendees to a friendly competition.
- Volleyball
- Cornhole
- Ladder Ball
- Bocce
- Kan Jam
- Horseshoes
- Giant Pong
- Lawn Darts
- Putting Greens
- Giant Checkers / Chess
Enjoy a chef-inspired Mediterranean meal with fellow attendees, complemented by a curated selection of wines and cocktails to enhance the dining experience.
Join us for a delightful farewell to the CannMed 24 Summit, complete with delicious breakfast fare and, of course, refreshing mimosas.
ATTENDANCE IS LIMITED. THE OPPORTUNITIES ARE NOT.
