Potencial Antiofídico de óleos de Cannabis Medicinal: Efeitos Modulatórios de CBD e THC sobre a Atividade Enzimática do Veneno de Crotalus durissus terrificus

• Grant number: 25/05322-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Molecular Biology
• Principal Investigator: Marcos Hikari Toyama
• Grantee: Willian Haniel Bezerra de Carvalho Santos
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB-CLP). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus Experimental do Litoral Paulista. São Vicente , SP, Brazil

Abstract

In Brazil, Crotalus durissus, known as the South American rattlesnake, stands out for its high lethality and wide geographical distribution, representing an important cause of snakebite accidents, especially in rural areas with limited access to healthcare services. It is estimated that these accidents affect between 1.8 and 2.7 million people annually, resulting in 81,000 to 138,000 deaths globally, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). Among the components of the venom of Crotalus durissus terrificus, crotoxin is the main toxin, accounting for approximately 60% of the total composition. Its potent inflammatory action is strongly associated with the enzymatic activity of phospholipase A¿ (sPLA¿). The complex composition of the venom, rich in bioactive molecules, makes this species a relevant source for the development of scientific tools and potential therapeutic agents. Despite advances, conventional treatment with antivenom therapy still presents limitations, especially regarding the effective neutralization of local and inflammatory effects. In this context, the search for complementary and evidence-based therapeutic alternatives becomes urgent. This study proposes to investigate the antivenom potential of Cannabis sativa oils, especially those rich in ¿¿-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and terpenes, against the toxicity induced by sPLA¿ from C. d. terrificus venom. Combined in vitro and in silico approaches will be employed, focusing on the inhibition of phospholipase activity. Besides contributing new therapeutic strategies, the scientific validation of products derived from medicinal Cannabis may aid in its destigmatization and proper regulation, promoting safe access to potentially beneficial treatments. This research will be developed with the technical support of the ADESAF Institute and the BIOMOLPEP laboratory (UNESP), aiming to overcome the challenges imposed by traditional antivenom therapy and expand treatment options for snakebite envenomation.