Since the start of the pandemic, Dr. Carolyn Baglole, member of the Meakins-Christie Laboratories and Director of the McGill Research Centre for Cannabis, has ensured that cannabis-related research continues. Although research has been considerably ramped down, Dr. Baglole asserts:
“We still have so much to learn about cannabis,” “We need to keep this research on track so we can further the science and better inform policymakers and the public.”
Dr. Carolyn Baglole
Although Dr. Baglole did not begin her scientific career with cannabis-related research in mind, the legalization of cannabis in Canada and other countries around the world has led to a growing interest in and use of the product for medical purposes. Recognizing the need for more information, researchers like Dr. Baglole are focusing on the potentially positive effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on the human body. CBD is the compound found in cannabis that has medicinal uses as it does not have psychotropic side effects. Early research suggests it may have an effect on the immune system and anti-inflammatory properties.
The Association québécoise de l’industrie du cannabis (AQIC) has launched the CBD Research Partnership Fund, which Dr. Baglole hopes will help to increase interest and support for this field of research into CBD and its yet-to-be discovered medicinal benefits. Partnerships such as this one will ensure that cannabis-related research continues far into the future.
“I hope that the CBD Research Partnership Fund has a feed-forward effect for CBD research at McGill,” Baglole says. “I hope it shows the high-quality work that can come out of this kind of research partnership and attracts additional funding so that we’re able to support more cutting-edge research projects.”
Read the interview with Dr. Carolyn Baglole here:
- A green future. Keeping cannabis research on track during the pandemic. McGill Alumni and Friends. November 30, 2020. Photo credit Owen Egan/Joni Dufour.