CBN Protects The Brain: Possible Treatment For Alzheimer’s And Parkinson’s

Researchers have uncovered the protective powers of cannabinol (CBN) in fruit flies, hinting at its potential in treating brain injuries and diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

As people age, the risk of neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s increases. Sadly, treatments for these conditions are limited. 

Scientists are now exploring cannabinoids, compounds found in cannabis plants like THC and CBD, as potential solutions. 

Among these cannabinoids, CBN has emerged as a promising candidate due to its mild and less mind-altering effects.

CBN explained

Lesser known than THC and CBD (even though it was the first cannabinoid to be discovered), CBN is molecularly similar to THC. 

In fact, THC converts into CBN as it degrades and oxidises.

While it’s not considered psychoactive, CBN has been described by some as having sedating effects. However, research suggests there isn’t much evidence backing that claim up.  

CBN is considered a controlled substance in the UK.

Neuroprotective

In the recent study, Salk Institute scientists delved into how CBN shields the brain from ageing and neurodegeneration. They then used this knowledge to develop new treatments. 

Crafting four CBN-inspired compounds, they found that one of them was particularly effective in treating traumatic brain injury in fruit flies.

The findings also suggest that CBN holds potential for treating neurological disorders like traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Research Professor Pamela Maher, the study’s senior author, highlights the significance of CBN and its derivatives in protecting neurons and potentially treating various neurological disorders. 

Potential treatment

Neurological disorders often involve neuron death due to mitochondrial dysfunction. CBN prevents this dysfunction, safeguarding neurons. 

Previous research found that, in vitro, CBN protects neurons from oxidative stress and cell death, two of the major contributors to neurodegenerative disorders.

Maher envisions a future where CBN analogs could be administered to athletes before games or to accident victims upon arrival at hospitals, potentially shielding the brain from further harm.

Moving forward, researchers will continue to study and refine these CBN analogs, focusing on age-related neurodegeneration and mitochondrial changes. 

Their goal is to develop compounds that promote cellular health and prevent neuronal dysfunction as people age.

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