News

Synthetic Version of CBD Treats Seizures in Rats

A synthetic, non-intoxicating analogue of cannabidiol (CBD) is effective in treating seizures in rats, according to research by chemists at the University of California, Davis. The synthetic CBD alternative is easier to purify than a plant extract, eliminates the need to use agricultural land for hemp cultivation, and could avoid legal complications with cannabis-related products. The work was recently published in the journal Scientific Reports.

Hemp as a California Crop: UC Davis Partners in Research Agreement

In California’s Central Valley, a new Oakdale company — in partnership with the University of California, Davis — wants to help make it the hemp capital of the country.

The California Hemp Corporation, formed by Jeff McPhee and Kent Kushar last year, has entered into a sponsored research agreement with UC Davis to study how the plant grows in the valley. Hemp is a species of cannabis plant — but lacks enough THC to produce pot’s high.

Marijuana Farms Expose Spotted Owls to Rat Poison in Northwest California

As Timberland Converts to Cannabis, Spotted Owls and Barred Owls Test Positive for Rat Poison

Wildlife species are being exposed to high levels of rat poison in northwest California, with illegal marijuana farms the most likely source point, according to a study led by the University of California, Davis, with the California Academy of Sciences.

Impact of medical marijuana laws on teen substance use differs by grade

A study assessing the impact of medical marijuana laws (MML) on adolescent substance use  has found decreased use of all substances among 8th graders, no change among 10th graders and increased non-medical use of prescription opioids and cigarette use among 12th graders, following MML enactment.

UC Davis study finds mold, bacterial contaminants in medical marijuana samples

UC Davis physician researchers have found that medical marijuana contains multiple bacterial and fungal pathogens that may cause serious and even fatal infections. They warn that smoking, vaping or inhaling aerosolized marijuana could pose a grave risk to patients, especially those with leukemia, lymphoma, AIDS or conditions requiring immune-suppressing therapies.

Genetic footprint of infectious organisms commonly found in the environment pose health risk for highly immunocompromised patients. © Wendy McCormick

Scientists Test Solutions for Energy-Efficient Grow Houses

If Colorado’s experience is any indication, energy use is expected to spike with the recent legalization of recreational marijuana in California, much as it did when data centers sprang up throughout the state.

For example, just two years after Colorado legalized recreational marijuana in 2012, grow houses consumed about 2 percent of the power supply in Denver alone.

Heavy, persistent pot use linked to economic and social problems at midlife

Study finds marijuana not "safer" than alcohol

A research study that followed children from birth up to age 38 has found that people who smoked cannabis four or more days of the week over many years ended up in a lower social class than their parents, with lower-paying, less skilled and less prestigious jobs than those who were not regular cannabis smokers. These regular and persistent users also experienced more financial, work-related and relationship difficulties, which worsened as the number of years of regular cannabis use progressed.