CannMed Coffee Talk

VIDEO VERSION AVAILABLE ON YOUTUBE

Dr. Zamir Punja is a Professor of Plant Biotechnology at Simon Fraser University in Canada. His research interests include the etiology and management of plant diseases on vegetable and horticultural crops, and the applications of plant biotechnology for disease management. Since 2018, his work has shifted to researching cannabis, where his group has described a range of previously unreported pathogens affecting the crop and has evaluated various methods for disease management.

Zamir’s latest research has been focused on a pathogen that is spreading throughout cannabis cultivation facilities worldwide, Hop Latent Viroid. HLVd is a relatively new pathogen. It was first identified in hops in the late 80s and was detected in cannabis in 2018. It is also quite small, only 40 nanometers in size. Still, in just five years this tiny pathogen has managed to infect as much as 90% of cannabis facilities in California alone. All while reducing yields by as much as 50% and costing the industry $4 billion in losses.

Zamir shared his latest research on HLVd at CannMed 23, which is the basis of our conversation today. I have put a link to the video of his presentation in the show description. Our conversation covers:

0:00 Introduction

4:38 Why Zamir calls HLVd the “COVID of Cannabis”

8:06 Evidence that HLVd spreads through seed 10:42 What is it doing to cannabis plants?

13:17 How hop growers dealt with HLVd

16:06 Lack of genetic diversity in HLVd

19:50 Up close view of trichomes on HLVd-infected plants

29:57 Treatment and Remediation options

32:53 HLVd Testing protocols

38:41 Sampling recommendations

48:05 Hope for the Future

50:30 Related Resources

52:47 Outro

Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: PhenoXpress

PhenoXpress offers low-cost genetic testing services to cultivation facilities. Using qPCR technology, PhenoXpress helps cutlivators identify genetic traits, such as plant sex, while plants are still in the seedling tray. They can also identify plant pathogens, such as Hop Latent Viroid, Lettuce Chlorosis Virus, and Powdery Mildew before plants show obvious signs of infection. Contact PhenoXpress today so they can help you predict, prevent, and eliminate major crop problems before they happen. 

Learn more at phenoxpress.com

Additional Resources

Understanding and Managing Hop Latent Viroid in Cannabis - Zamir Punja, PhD [CannMed 23 Presentation]

Hop Latent Viroid Shares a 19 Nucleotide Sequence with Cannabis sativa COG7 - Kevin McKernan [CannMed 23 Presentation] -

Hop Latent Viroid in Cannabis

Review the Podcast!

CannMed Archive

CannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]

Hunter Land, PhD is the Vice President of Research & Development at Biopharmaceutical Research Company, one of the few DEA Schedule I, FDA compliant cannabinoid research and development companies. He has 20 years of R&D expertise across 25 different indications, as well as 12 years of cannabinoid-focused research.  Most notably, he was GW Pharma's first full-time R&D employee in the US, where he played a critical role in the development of Epidiolex® and Sativex®, and co-authored multiple protocols for the treatment of refractory epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and pain.

At CannMed 23, Hunter’s presentation was titled Effect of Cannabinoids and Cannflavins on Neurodegeneration, Lifespan, and Healthspan, which is the basis for our conversation today. You can find a link to that video in the show description.

Topics we discussed include:

Defining lifespan, healthspan, and longevity Why C. elegans are good organisms for studying toxicity and longevity Whe entourage effect, more specifically whether a combination of compounds has a greater effect on longevity than single compounds How do cannabis compounds compare to other longevity drugs like metformin and resveratrol Whether cannabis compounds could be used prophylactically for conditions like Alzheimer's and dementiaDetermining the ideal dosing range for cannabinoids Whether CBD and CBG should be incorporated into a healthy lifestyle to improve longevity 

Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor - Trulieve

Trulieve strives to bring you the relief you need in a product you can trust. Their plants are hand-grown in a facility with a controlled environment specially designed to reduce unwanted chemicals and pests, keeping the process as natural as possible at every turn. Their mission is to provide compassionate care patients can trust when traditional medicine is not enough. Their specially-trained staff works hand-in-hand with YOUR physician to provide the right products and the correct dosage to ensure you get the compassionate care you need. To learn more visit trulieve.com

Additional Resources

Effect of Cannabinoids and Cannflavins on Neurodegeneration, Lifespan, and Healthspan - Hunter Land (CannMed 23 Presentation Video) Biopharmaceutical Research CompanyReview the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]

Arnaud Dumas de Rauly is the co-founder and CEO of The Blinc Group, a company that is transforming the cannabis vaping industry with its focus on safety, innovation, and quality.

As a leading expert in the science, technology, and supply chain of cannabis vaping merchandise, Arnaud’s assistance and expertise in the vaping sector have been requested by multiple regulatory bodies across North America, Europe, and Asia. He currently works pro-bono as Chairman of the ISO, International Organization of Standardization, TC126/SC3 on Vaping Products, and of the CEN Standards Committee TC437 on Vapor Products. He is also a member of the Marijuana Science and Policy Work Group operated by the Colorado Department of Revenue’s MED and CDPHE and the ASTM D37 Cannabis Committee.

At CannMed 23, Arnaud talked about the many variables that affect how well cannabis vape cartridges deliver cannabinoids to the user. During our conversation, we dig deeper into the following topics: 

What should consumers and patients be looking at when choosing vape products? The symbiotic relationship between cannabis oil and vape hardware Why emissions testing is important to understand what the user is inhaling Different cannabinoids have different rates of aerosolization. So much so that they may be completely gone before the oil is. How federal legalization may change cannabis vape regulations and requirements Tips for patients who want to vape their medicine 

Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: The Blinc Group

Headquartered in New York City, The Blinc Group designs, manufactures, and provides premium cannabis vaping hardware. The company offers a curated collection of proven cartridges, batteries, ready to use vaporizers and complete bespoke device development to multi-state operators, licensed producers, processors and brands. Blinc completes the value chain by providing its clients access to a suite of services ranging from 5 month financing options, vendor managed inventory (VMI), R&D, production, product testing, standard operating procedures, training and all the way to go-to-market strategy and brand communications consulting. With full control of the supply chain, the company’s unique “Powered by Blinc” process enables clients to provide innovative, safe and quality controlled products to cannabis consumers worldwide.

To learn more about Blinc, visit http://www.theblincgroup.com

Additional Resources

A First Look Into Cannabis Vaping Variables & Delivery - Arnaud Dumas de Rauly (CannMed 23 Presentation Video)The Cannabis Vape Consumption SurveyThe Blinc Group websiteReview the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]

In 2022, Dr. Jeff Rawson founded the Institute of Cannabis Science (ICS), a nonprofit organization that produces Honest Data About Weed.  The mission of ICS is to conduct cannabis research that educates consumers, guides regulators to adopt testing regulations that are based on science, and ensures that products are safe for patients and consumers.

At CannMed 23 Dr. Rawson will participate in a panel discussion about Challenges with Regulating the Cannabis Industry as part of the CannMed Laboratory Compliance Testing Workshop.

In December 2022, he made a presentation entitled Misinformation in Cannabis Markets to the members of the Massachusetts (MA) Cannabis Advisory Board Research Subcommittee.  Jeff has presented recommendations for corrective actions to prevent misinformation in the MA cannabis market.  The Boston Globe has published his letters about the challenges of cannabis regulatory science.

During our conversation, we discuss:

What the Institute of Cannabis Science is and what they do How the average THC% in Massachusetts flower increased from 2019 to 2022, and what could that be a sign of The information presented to consumers on dispensary websites is limited and vague The challenge of collecting and analyzing cannabis testing data How providing more information on cannabis labels leads to healthier consumers

Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Brains Bioceutical

Brains Bioceutical is a global leader in EU-GMP-certified production of naturally-sourced active pharmaceutical ingredients for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. With a unique suite of licences, Brains Bioceutical is one of the only natural plant-based phytochemical API manufacturers in commercial production today, and is involved in academic and clinical trials across the globe. Brains Bioceutical is the leader in evidence-based Phyto-cannabinoid health solutions to enhance life and treatment options for all.

Learn more at brainsbioceutical.com 

Additional Resources

Institute of Cannabis Science websiteEye on CannabisRequest an Invitation to CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study

If you grow or consume cannabis, you’ve benefited from something Michael Straumietis has done. A grower since 1983, Michael's mission is to make cannabis an acceptable and everyday part of healing humanity. In 1999, he founded Advanced Nutrients and launched the world’s first and only complete cannabis growing system that Hits the Shift and optimizes all phases of the vegetative and bloom cycles to bring cannabis to its true genetic potential.

At CannMed 23, Michael is leading the Cultivation Workshop that focuses on fighting profit-robbing plant pathogens, such as hop latent viroid (HLVd), fusarium, botrytis, pythium, powdery mildew, and Phytophthora. The workshop brings together industry-leading experts who will cover both efficient and economically sound practices for pathogen management, so you can maximize ROI in your cultivation facility. Get ready to explore the science behind each major pathogen, vectors through which they infiltrate facilities and plants, and proven methods for pathogen prevention. We’ll also introduce effective strategies for pathogen detection, as well as critical procedures to implement for continued facility success before, during, and after a pathogen occurrence.

During our conversation, we discuss:

How plant pathogens can impact growers’ bottom lines The emergence of new pathogens and where they may have come fromThe importance of early detection Preventing plant pathogens with good SOPsNew Advanced Nutrients products aimed at helping growers combat pathogens 

Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Advanced Nutrients

Founded in 1999, Advanced Nutrients was the first to develop a complete nutrient system that unlocks the true genetic potential of the cannabis plant. Since its inception, the brand has introduced more than 50 innovations to the cultivation community, and continues to revolutionize the space through proprietary scientific discoveries. 

Learn more at advancednutrients.com

BigMike on InstagramChat with Buddy on advancednutrients.comRequest an Invitation to CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study

Dr. Bonni Goldstein is one of the country’s most respected and experienced medical cannabis physicians, having treated thousands of patients with medical cannabis. She is the owner and medical director of Canna-Centers Wellness & Education. She is Clinical Advisor to Cannformatics. And she is the author of the book titled “Cannabis is Medicine: How Medical Cannabis and CBD Are Healing Everything from Anxiety to Chronic Pain”. 

Bonni is leading the CannMed Medical practicum this year and also presenting about Minor Cannabinoids during the main session. During this episode we dive into one of those cannabinoids, CBG, and discuss the following: 

What makes CBG one of Bonni’s favorite new cannabinoids What makes CBG a “bridge” cannabinoid between THC and CBD The difference between CBGA and CBG How CBG enhances the body’s natural endocannbinoid system How CBG works in combination with other cannabinoids Conditions for which CBG is a good fitPotential adverse reactions to CBG A preview of the CannMed Medical Practicum 

Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: The DENT Institute

With more than 300,000 patient visits per year, the DENT Neurologic Institute ranks among the largest neuroscience centers in North America. Its 24 subspecialty clinics often treat the most challenging neurologic conditions including but not limited to Migraine, Chronic pain, ALS, MS, Parkinson’s, Dementia, Neuro-Oncology, etc. With our mission of advancing neuroscience, we established a cannabis clinic in 2016 to aid in the treatment of these chronic conditions seen throughout our institute.

Learn more at dentinstitute.com

Additional Resources

What is CBG [YouTube Video]@bonnigoldsteinmd on InstagramBonni Goldstein, MD on LinkedInRequest an Invitation to CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study

Anthony Repay is currently serving as Laboratory Director of Method Testing Laboratories in Tampa, FL. Anthony started his career as the head food and environmental microbiologist at a Chicago-based testing laboratory before joining the cannabis science community. Since joining cannabis, Anthony has tried to innovate and push the cannabis microbiology community by publishing peer-reviewed papers, speaking on proper quality control and volunteering in several national wide cannabis groups. 

During our conversation we discuss:

How growers can incorporate microbial testing into their processes Sources of microbial contamination and tips for prevention How differences in microbial regulations influence growers in certain states Remediation technologies and more 

Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: RS BioTherapeutics 

RS BioTherapeutics’ first investigational compound (RSBT-001) is a nebulized, semi-synthetic, cannabidiolic acid complex in development to address exacerbation and prevent progression of both acute and chronic pulmonary inflammation related to respiratory diseases including COPD, SARS-COV-2, Cystic Fibrosis, Asthma, Bronchitis, and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. More information on RS BioTherapeutics can be found at www.rsbiotherapeutics.com.

Additional Resources

Anthony Repay on LinkedInMethod Testing Laboratories websiteCannabis Microbial Testing Regulations by State [Interactive Tool]Request an Invitation to CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study

Dr. Russel Jessup is an Associate Professor at Texas A&M University. Russ started his career developing improved perennial grasses as biorefinery platforms for biofuels, turfgrasses, forage, ornamentals, phytoremediators, and renewable bio-based products. He has since transitioned into working on breeding industrial hemp, during which, he and his team identified a need for field-portable testing technologies that could help accelerate their programs. At CannMed 23, he will present on three of those technologies. Doing our conversation we discuss: 

How a field portable near-infrared spectrometer can be used to screen hemp plants to make sure they don’t exceed 0.3% THC How a cellphone-based microscope attachment can determine the size, maturity, and type of trichomes How a microfluid channels are used to identify tetraploid hemp plants, which produce better fiber and grain than diploid plants How microfiber tents contain pollen from male plants so they can be in the same room as females Why Russ moved from perennial grasses to hemp The goal of creating stable, consistent industrial hemp lines that can be grown like other modern major crops  

Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Rare Earth Genomics

Rare Earth Genomics Texas is a partnership formed to accelerate hemp research and produce critical tools for the farmer. REG's mission is to increase likelihood of a successful harvest through genetic analysis and rigorous environmental testing of vigorous cultivars. Reliable datasets, analytic tools and stable germplasm are core to the program. Success of the farmer is the goal!

Additional Resources

Russell Jessup on LinkedInHemp Conversion ProgramRequest an Invitation to CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study

Akeem Gardner is the Founder and CEO of Canurta. In 2018 Akeem acquired an Industrial Hemp License from Health Canada and began to farm hemp as he embarked on his entrepreneurial venture, which allowed him to meet with the University of Guelph professors in the summer of 2019 to begin the cannflavin project. 

At CannMed 23, he will present “Targeting Glioblastoma Invasion and Survival with Cannabis-Derived Flavonoids”. During our conversation, Akeem provides a preview of that presentation, and insights into the following topics: 

What are flavonoids and how are they different from cannabinoids and terpenes The flavonoids that are unique to cannabis, also known as cannflavins Why cannflavins are not as well-studies as other cannabis compoundsHow Akeem became interested in cannflavinsCantura’s method for isolating, capturing, and concentrating these moleculesPotential medical applications for cannflavins and how they may work in combination with cannabinoids

Thanks to This Episode’s Sponsor: Canurta

Canurta is a preclinical biotechnology company pioneering the discovery and production of novel, polyphenol-rich ingredients to improve chronic disease prevention and recovery. Their research and technology unlocks the significant anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-cancer and neuroprotective potential of plant polyphenols. Canurta aspires to improve health outcomes, promote longevity and pull humans and animals out of the cycle of chronic disease.

To learn more visit canurta.com

Additional Resources

Interference of neuronal TrkB signaling by the cannabis-derived flavonoids cannflavins A and BAkeem Gardner on LinkedInRequest an Invitation to CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study

Markus Roggen, PhD is President and Chief Scientific Officer of Delic Labs, a licensed cannabis and psilocybin research laboratory focused on extraction optimization, analytical testing, and process development. Markus has been in the cannabis industry since 2014 and has held several executive positions in analytical and production companies. His research into process optimization and analytical methods has been recognized with a number of awards, and he has become a trusted advisor and mentor to multiple startups, startup accelerators, and organizations, including CannMed. 

At CannMed 23, Markus will be presenting the topic, “Of Birds, Bees and Buds: How to Talk About Cannabis and How to Label it Correctly” During our conversation, we discuss some of the issues with current cannabis labeling as well as some potential alternative, including: 

How THC percentage is miscalculated The fact that only a fraction of the THC in cannabis flower is actually consumed How joint architecture affects the amount of THC the smoker consumes Why the ABV percentage in alcohol and THC percentages are not the sameHow establishing a standard unit for cannabis products may shift the focus away from THC percentage and towards aroma, terpene profiles, and flavor 

Thanks to This Episode's Sponsor: Juva Life

Founded by pioneers in the science and business of cannabis and guided by a team of highly-acclaimed medical professionals, Juva Life brings unprecedented depth of knowledge in the science and medicinal effects of cannabis. Their vertically integrated approach allows Juva Life to carefully oversee every aspect of development, from cultivation to consumer, with deep expertise in research, testing and efficacy. It’s an approach that enables not only quality and consistency of product but, most importantly, it assures accuracy and legitimacy of testing and research data.

Learn more at juvalife.com

Additional Resources

DelicLabs.comSell Convenience, Not Math Problems [Cannabis Business Times]Totally miscalculated: The Total THC Problem [The Cannabis Scientist]Request an Invitation to CannMed 23Review the Podcast!CannMed ArchiveCannMed Community Board [Facebook Group]Healthcare Provider Medical Cannabis Research Study