Major: Biochemistry

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Amanda K. Ashley

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Research Project Summary:

Cannabidiol (CBD) inhibits proinflammatory signaling due to its interaction with endocannabinoid receptors CNR1 and CNR2. We have synthesized biologically based CBD derivatives which may have differential binding to CNR1 and/or CNR2, and this interaction may manifest as enhanced potency in mitigating inflammation. Our objective is to characterize the toxicity of these derivatives in breast cancer and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines by measuring proliferation. In parallel, we will determine if changes in inflammatory gene expression are induced by the CBD derivatives. Once tested these characteristics will be applied in a variety of cancers and inflammatory characterized diseases.