Evaluation of the synergistic effect of cannabidiol treatment and physical exercise in the transgenic model of Down Syndrome, Ts65Dn.

• Grant number: 23/15682-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2024
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Radiology
• Principal Investigator: Daniele de Paula Faria
• Grantee: Chiara Maria Righini
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated scholarship(s): 24/13686-2 - Evaluation of biomarkers and brain tissue changes associated with Alzheimers Disease, BE.EP.IC

Abstract

Down Syndrome (DS) is a genetic condition caused by trisomy of chromosome 21. The aging process in this syndrome is early and mainly associated with inflammation, which triggers molecular changes and increases susceptibility to degenerative diseases. It has therefore been the subject of pre-clinical and clinical studies, to better understand this process and search for interventions to improve the quality of life of this population. This study aims to evaluate the impact of two interventions: one pharmacological, using cannabidiol (CBD), and one non-pharmacological, based on physical exercise. It is hypothesized that these interventions may delay or even prevent the cognitive decline that occurs during aging in DS. For a longitudinal evaluation, we will use positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, a technique that allows quantitative and non-invasive evaluation of physiological processes in vivo. In this study, transgenic animal models that mimic the characteristics of DS will be used. PET analysis with [18F]FDG (a marker of metabolic activity) and [11C]PK11195 (a marker of inflammation) will be carried out at different stages (at 4 and 8 months of age), along with object recognition testing and quantification of plasma biomarkers. This experimental study has high translational potential and could serve as a proof of concept for future clinical research.