Radiation-Responsive CBD Delivery System Protected Against Acute Radiation Injury in New Animal Study
- The study developed radiation-sensitive polymer micelles containing cannabidiol (CBD) that release the drug upon exposure to gamma radiation, while remaining stable otherwise.
- The micelles, about 155 nanometers in size and containing diselenide bonds, released over 60% of their CBD within six hours when exposed to low-dose gamma radiation in lab tests.
- In mice exposed to gamma radiation, the CBD-loaded micelles helped restore body weight, reduced oxidative stress, protected organs from radiation damage, and improved 30-day survival rates to over 50%.
- The researchers suggest this radiation-responsive CBD delivery system is a promising approach for preventing and treating acute radiation injuries with potentially fewer toxic effects than conventional radioprotective drugs.
A radiation-sensitive drug delivery system containing cannabidiol (CBD) reduced organ damage and increased survival among mice exposed to gamma radiation, according to a study published in Materials Today Bio.
Researchers developed polymer micelles containing CBD that were designed to remain stable under normal conditions but release the cannabinoid when exposed to gamma radiation. The micelles measured approximately 155 nanometers and incorporated radiation-sensitive diselenide bonds.
Laboratory testing found that the system responded even to low-dose gamma radiation, releasing more than 60% of its CBD within six hours. In the absence of radiation, the micelles retained their spherical structure, potentially limiting unnecessary drug exposure.
In irradiated mice, the CBD-loaded micelles promoted body-weight recovery, improved cellular and tissue uptake, reduced intracellular oxidative stress and protected multiple organs from radiation-related damage.
Treatment also increased the animals’ 30-day survival rate to more than 50%, according to the researchers.
Exposure to high levels of radiation can cause widespread cellular injury, oxidative stress and damage to organs and tissues. Although conventional radioprotective drugs are available, their potential toxicity has prompted researchers to explore alternative treatments and delivery methods.
The researchers concluded that the radiation-responsive CBD system offers a promising potential strategy for preventing and treating acute radiation injuries.