Cannabidivarin (CBDV) and neuroprotection

We wrote yesterday about one of the minor cannabinoids (cannabigerol, or ‘CBG’) as a newly-recognized neuroprotective agent, with an encouraging pharmaceutical development profile much like cannabidiol (CBD). There is another, in cannabidivarin (CBDV), a structural analogue of CBD, the same molecule but shortened by two methylene bridges. 

In vivo studies consistently report anti‐epileptic effects. CBDV, like CBD, is an agonist at TRPV1/2 andTRPA1 channels, and an antagonist atTRPM8 channels, which may explain this. But, because it is known that CBDV does not affect neurotrophic levels or epilepsy‐related gene expression, its protective effects are independent of these pathways. Plasma and brain concentration after oral treatment varies between experimental animal species, for reasons not known, bringing into question its pharmacokinetic properties in eventual human trials. Long‐term tolerability of CBDV as an anti‐epileptic agent in humans is an unknown at this point as well. 

Short-term anti‐convulsant efficacy has been trialed in a phase IIa human study of the experimental, CBDV-containing drug GWP42006. Focal seizures were not adequately controlled compared to placebo controls in that study. There is uncertainty about whether the dose levels were appropriate, however. The study designers have also observed that there was a surprisingly high response in the placebo group. Dose-determination is the function of phase II trials. Much work remains to be done as CBDV moves into clinical study. Given what appears to be encouraging preclinical evidence, however, this work is very much warranted. 

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The foregoing is a report on trends and developments in the cannabinoid industry. No product described herein is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or syndrome.