Development of a Preclinical Inhalation Model to Test Vaporized Cannabis Distillates

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Toxicology
• Preclinical Research Models
• Cannabis Science

Background:

• Cannabis vape products, particularly cannabis distillates, are increasingly popular but lack comprehensive study.
• High cannabinoid concentrations (e.g., THC) in vapes pose dosing challenges for preclinical research.
• Existing preclinical models do not accurately reflect human cannabis vaping patterns, hindering safety and efficacy evaluations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and standardize a preclinical murine model for the inhalation of vaporized cannabis distillates.
• To establish a reliable method for administering cannabis vape products in vivo, mimicking human use.
• To enable rigorous investigation into the pulmonary and systemic effects of cannabis vaping.

Main Methods:

• Development of a computer-controlled delivery system for precise administration of cannabis distillates.
• Utilized a nose-only exposure tower to deliver vaporized cannabis distillates to mice with regimented puff topography.
• Incorporated methods for monitoring post-exposure behavioral outcomes and confirming systemic THC delivery via ELISA.

Main Results:

• A standardized protocol for nose-only inhalation of vaporized cannabis distillates in mice was successfully established.
• The system allows for controlled exposure, facilitating the determination of physiologically relevant dosing.
• Confirmation of THC delivery into the systemic circulation was achieved, validating the model's efficacy.

Conclusions:

• The developed murine model provides a standardized approach for preclinical evaluation of cannabis vape products.
• This model allows for the investigation of real-world cannabis vaping delivery protocols.
• Facilitates rigorous safety and therapeutic evaluations of cannabis distillates, addressing a critical research gap.