A study published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine shows that cannabidol (CBD) delivered via nanoemulsions may help reduce autism-like behaviors and prevent neural damage in autism.
For the study, researchers sought to address CBD’s low oral bioavailability by developing a nanoemulsion formulation using CBD-rich corn oil. The study evaluated the effects of this treatment using an animal mode, assessing behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and examining hippocampal and cerebral cortex histology.
Offspring were given CBD nanoemulsions orally twice daily at doses of 1 and 2 mg per animal. The treatment was found to reverse valproic acid (VPA)-induced behavioral deficits, including increased anxiety, excessive grooming, reduced exploratory activity, and impaired sociability. Additionally, the study found that CBD nanoemulsions protected against neuronal death and preserved viable cells in the hippocampus.
The findings suggest that CBD nanoemulsions may offer a neuroprotective effect in ASD models, potentially improving symptoms by mitigating neuronal damage.
Researchers conclude the study by stating:
It was concluded that CBDON demonstrates great potential in attenuating autistic-like behaviors in rats. This effect may be related to the protection against neuronal death in the hippocampus, also resulting from the treatment with the nanoemulsion. Although nanoemulsions at both doses showed favorable responses and increased the effect of CBD, CBDON2 was shown to be more efficient, and it is possible to incorporate syrups to attenuate all evaluated parameters. However, further research should be directed to exploring the related pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and toxicity. These findings bring new insights into the treatment of autism, and nanotechnology appears to represent a promising perspective that may bring CBD closer to clinical use.
For more information on this study, click here.
