Zelira Therapeutics Ltd (ASX:ZLD) (OTCMKTS:ZLDAF) (FRA:G1G) is buoyed that Curtin University researchers have developed a new technology that improves delivery of cannabidiol (CBD) based drugs into the brains of mice by up to 40-times.
The research team, funded by Zelira, created tiny capsules containing cannabinoids which, when taken orally, were absorbed by the body faster and penetrated the brain quicker in mice models with neurological diseases, than when delivered in liquid form.
This technology has potential for cannabinoid-based therapies to treat neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and traumatic brain injury.
The company is currently exploring the potential for human studies.
“Supports use for neurological disorders”
Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI) and the School of Population Health lead researcher Associate Professor Ryu Takechi said there had been a growing interest in the use of CBD to treat various neurological diseases but that there were limitations due to its poor absorption and sensitivity to light and stomach acid when consumed orally.
Takechi said: “CBD is found in medicinal cannabis and is a popular natural remedy for people living with neurological and metabolic diseases.
“In an effort to address the issue of limitations in absorption of cannabidiol, we aimed to design and test a new drug delivery method.
“With this new capsulated form, we were able to improve the brain delivery of CBD remarkably by 40 times in animal models and we were also able to protect the drug from oxidation and degradation by light, which helps extend product shelf-life.
"The findings may be helpful in supporting the clinical use of medicinal cannabis in the treatment of neurological disorders.”
“Leadership in cannabinoid medicine development”
The research continues the company’s expansion of its intellectual property portfolio and reputation for focusing on scientific and clinically validated formulations.
Zelira chief executive officer Dr Oludare Odumosu said: “We are delighted with the outcome of our collaboration with Dr Takechi and his research team at Curtin University.
“The new encapsulation technology significantly improves the efficiency with which cannabinoid-based drugs can be delivered into the brain and presents a game-changing platform to improve the effectiveness of cannabinoid therapies for neurological disorders while reducing cost and enhancing safety.
“This development further affirms Zelira’s commitment to innovation and leadership in cannabinoid medicine development.
“Associate Professor Takechi and his team are currently using the encapsulation technology to assess the efficacy of CBD to protect from and prevent cognitive decline in a mouse model of diabetes.
“Results will be reported later in 2021.”