Comprehensive study of the influence of canabigerol encapsulation in lipid nanoparticles on chemical stability, pharmacological, and metabolic properties aiming at the treatment of autism

• Grant number: 24/18630-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy
• Principal Investigator: Eneida de Paula
• Grantee: Fabíola Vieira de Carvalho
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biologia (IB). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Cannabigerol (CBG), a phytocannabinoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, has been explored as a potential therapeutic agent in various neuropsychiatric conditions, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, its low water solubility and rapid metabolism limit its bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. The encapsulation of CBG aims to overcome pharmacokinetic challenges, such as its low solubility and rapid metabolism, optimizing bioavailability and prolonging the compound's release in the body, which may maximize its therapeutic effects on the central nervous system (CNS). This project aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of CBG encapsulated in Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLC) for the treatment of ASD. The first phase of the study will consist of the development, preparation, and characterization of NLC containing CBG, evaluating its physical and chemical stability. Subsequently, in vitro ADME assays will be conducted to compare the pharmacokinetic properties of pure CBG versus encapsulated CBG. These assays will assess the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the compound in both forms. Following this, in vivo tests will be conducted in animal models of ASD induced with valproic acid (VPA). Behavioral effects will be assessed through social interaction tests, object recognition, and repetitive behaviors. Finally, to determine toxicity and metabolic impacts, neuronal cells will be exposed to different concentrations of pure and encapsulated CBG, with cellular viability parameters and changes in the metabolic profile integratively analyzed using metabolomics techniques (NMR and LC/MS). Thus, this study intends not only to evaluate the safety and efficacy of encapsulated CBG but also to explore how encapsulation may influence its therapeutic effects in the context of autism, opening new perspectives for the development of innovative cannabinoid-based therapies for complex neurological diseases.