Abstracts

 Methods: In our work we use in vitro electrophysiology to study effects of acidic cannabinoids on neuronal excitability and seizure-like activity in juvenile (P20-P30) rat brain slices. Whole cell recordings are performed in the hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells. Seizure-like activity is induced with low magnesium model of seizures at the physiological temperature. Results: We show that CBDA is equally as effective as CBD at controlling neuronal excitability and seizure-like activity. In addition to our results in the brain slices, we will highlight and discuss other recent experimental evidence on biological actions of non-psychoactive acidic cannabinoids that are relevant and forward-looking for the applications in epilepsy. We critically evaluate experimental evidence suggesting that acidic cannabinoids may effectively control epileptiform activity, inflammatory processes, and could contribute to neuroprotection. Conclusions: We emphasize that in vivo and in vitro data on activity of non-intoxicating acidic cannabinoids is promising but further in vivo studies are needed to unravel the their full therapeutic potential. Nonetheless, acidic cannabinoids, like other cannabinoids may become important components of the future cannabis-based epilepsy therapies. Funding: Dravet Syndrome Foundation and University of Houston Grants to Advance and Enhance Research