Extracts from Cannabis could help prevent coronavirus
As various vaccines against the novel coronavirus enter human trials across the globe, the researchers are still looking at existing ways and treatments to fight COVID-19. As per the report, the researchers from Canada have found that the extracts from Cannabis, also known as Marijuana, could help prevent or treat the coronavirus.
A research was published in peer Journal Preprints. The research was conducted by the scientists in, but the results were released in a non-peer-reviewed, preclinical study. The study was titled - "In Search of Preventive Strategies: Novel Anti-Inflammatory High-CBD Cannabis Sativa Extracts Modulate ACE2 Expression in COVID-19 Gateway Issues."
The research was conducted by researchers from Alberta, Canada. The researchers used the artificial 3D models of oral, airway, and intestinal tissues. Reportedly, high CBD Cannabis sativa extracts were found to modulate ACE2 gene expression and ACE2 protein levels. The results indicated that the hemp extracts high in CBD may help block proteins – the ACE-2 receptors, which have been found as the "entry point" for coronavirus into host cells in the body.
Dr. Igor Kovalchuk, CEO of Pathway Rx and holder of a Health Canada License for Cannabis Research, was quoted by AJC as saying: "Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been accepted by the scientific community as a receptor required for the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into human cells."
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He also added that "Our initial findings warrant further investigation but it’s possible that the medical cannabis products could become a safe adjunct therapy for the treatment of coronavirus.”
-PTC News
