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Supply problems and rising soybean meal prices have an impact on increasing feed costs. Hemp seed meal (HSM) with high protein content has the potential to be used as an alternative to soybean meal. This study evaluated the impact of dietary HSM of Narlı Sarayı variety as a substitute for soybean meal on productive performances, egg quality and yolk fatty acid composition. A total of 120 Lohmann Brown laying hens aged 50 weeks were allocated into 4 groups and 10 repetitions. Birds received treatment without HSM (control group), or soybean meal substituted with 4%, 8% and 12% HSM. Dietary 4% significantly increased (p < 0.05) egg production and decreased FCR compared with 8% and 12% HSM group but did not differ from the control group in an overall period of 6 weeks. The inclusion of the 12% HSM group significantly decreased (p < 0.05) egg production. Meanwhile, there was no influence of hemp seed meal (p > 0.05) on feed intake, egg weight, body weight change, egg shape index, albumen index, albumen weight, Haugh unit, yolk weight, yolk index and eggshell thickness. Dietary 8% and 12% HSM significantly increased (p < 0.05) eggshell weight and yolk colour compared with control and 4% HSM groups. There was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in omega-3 fatty acid concentration and a decrease in yolk omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids ratio with an increase in dietary HSM. It was concluded that dietary up to 12% HSM of the Narlı Sarayı variety decreased egg production and increased FCR. Increasing dietary levels of HSM increased eggshell weight, yolk colour and omega-3 fatty acids content and decreased the omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the framework of Bill No.13-21 on the legal use of cannabis in Morocco, we studied the Cannabis sativa L plant, known as 'Beldeya,' grown in the Ketama region of northern Morocco. In the present study, phytochemical screening, a quantitative study on ethanol, chloroform, and hexane extracts of cannabis flowers, and a study of antioxidant potential were carried out. In all three extracts, phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of different kinds of secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, anthocyanins, tannins, and reducing sugars. The Folin-Ciocalteu technique was used to measure the total amount of polyphenols, and the results showed that the total amount of polyphenols varied from 1.802 mg to 2.225 mg of gallic acid equivalent (EqAG). Flavonoid assay with Aluminum chloride (AlCl3) revealed that all three extracts contained flavonoids, ranging from 0.242 mg to 0.442 mg quercetin equivalent (EqQ). Using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) reduction test, antioxidant activity was evaluated. The results obtained show that the ethanolic extract exhibited superior activity, with an IC50 value of 231.39 μg/ml, followed by the hexanic and chloroformic extracts, having IC50 values of 376.40 μg/ml and 769.60 μg/ml, respectively.

Homemade diets integrated with functional ingredients may help to ensure that companion animals have a good life quality given the rise in their average lifespan. This study investigates the effects of a complete and well-balanced homemade diet supplemented with hulled hemp seeds. Twelve adult dogs divided into two groups: CTRL, fed the basal diet and HEMP, fed the diet integrated hulled Cannabis sativa L. seeds (4 g/100g of ration) were enrolled in the trial. The following samples were collected: (a) individual faecal samples to assess the diet digestibility through an indirect method of acid-insoluble ash; b) blood samples to evaluate the oxidative state through an OXI adsorbent test; and c) rectal swabs for intestinal microbiota analysis (alpha- and beta-diversity and taxonomy). The results reveal that with respect to the commercial diet used in this study, our homemade diet increased the total and protein digestibility (total: 53.97 ± 2.54% and 58.20 ± 2.58%; p

Background: Cannabis has been used medicinally for centuries. Historically, cannabis-based medicines have been used to treat many conditions. In the 20th century, their use was criminalized worldwide. Nowadays, many countries decriminalize their use. The complexity of the subject and the qualitative variability of the active factors of individual varieties of this species determine new areas that require research and analysis. Attention is drawn to legal issues, quality control issues, and shortages of randomized and controlled clinical trials. The article is addressed to health care professionals and people interested in legal and medical aspects and the potential benefits and challenges related to medical cannabis. Aim of the study: The aim of article analyzed the legal and practical aspects of access to marijuana and its use for medical application in Poland. Materials and method: Comparing legal solutions and analyzing differences in the regulations of marijuana used for medical purposes in selected countries will also make it possible to indicate the directions of development in this area in Poland. Results: This article discusses the legal framework for access to medical cannabis and its use for medical purposes. There are at least twenty-one types of raw materials on the market in Poland, which, while maintaining the same levels of THC and CBD, differ in their terpene profile and, therefore, in detailed therapeutic properties. Understanding the differences can enable pharmacists to support and monitor patient drug therapy in this area. The area of medical use of cannabis was also presented in terms of the possibility of cooperation between physicians and pharmacists in providing services to patients in order to achieve therapeutic effectiveness and develop risk management tools for pharmacotherapy using medical marijuana. Conclusions: As limitations in research and use are eliminated, new therapeutic options will be explored. Despite numerous challenges and limitations related to the use of Cannabis, such as the problems of raw material selection, quality control, stability, safety and effectiveness, the achievements so far in this area should be considered encouraging and important for the health care system in Poland.

Within the framework of Bill No.13-21 on the legal use of cannabis in Morocco, we studied the Cannabis sativa L. plant, known as 'Beldeya,' grown in the Ketama region of northern Morocco. In the present study, phytochemical screening, a quantitative study on ethanol, chloroform, and hexane extracts of cannabis flowers, and a study of antioxidant potential were carried out. In all three extracts, phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of different kinds of secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, anthocyanins, tannins, and reducing sugars. The Folin-Ciocalteu technique was used to measure the total amount of polyphenols, and the results showed that the total amount of polyphenols varied from 1.802 mg to 2.225 mg of gallic acid equivalent (EqAG). Flavonoid assay with Aluminum chloride (AlCl3) revealed that all three extracts contained flavonoids, ranging from 0.242 mg to 0.442 mg quercetin equivalent (EqQ). Using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) reduction test, antioxidant activity was evaluated. The results obtained show that the ethanolic extract exhibited superior activity, with an IC50 value of 231.39 µg/ml, followed by the hexanic and chloroformic extracts, having IC50 values of 376.40 µg/ml and 769.60 µg/ml, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cannabis sativa L. is attracting worldwide attention due to various health‐promoting effects. Extraction solvent type is critical for the recovery of bioactive compounds from the plant, especially cannabinoids. However, the choice of solvent is varied and not adequately warranted elsewhere, causing confusion in involved fields. Objective: The present work aimed to investigate the effect of extraction solvent on C. sativa (hemp) with regard to cannabinoid recovery and phytochemical profile of the extracts, considering most of the related solvents. Methodology: The majority of solvents reported for C. sativa (n = 14) were compared using a representative hemp pool. Quantitative results for major and minor cannabinoids were rapidly and reliably obtained using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detection (UPLC‐PDA). In parallel, high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic (HPTLC) fingerprinting was employed, involving less toxic mobile phase than in relevant reports. Various derivatisation schemes were applied for more comprehensive comparison of extracts. Results: Differential selectivity towards cannabinoids was observed among solvents. MeOH was found particularly efficient for most cannabinoids, in addition to solvent systems such as n‐Hex/EtOH 70:30 and ACN/EtOH 80:20, while EtOH was generally inferior. For tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)‐type compounds, EtOAc and n‐Hex/EtOAc 60:40 outperformed n‐Hex, despite its use in the official EU method. Solvents that tend to extract more lipids or more polar compounds were revealed based on HPTLC results. Conclusion: Combining the observations from UPLC quantitation and HPTLC fingerprinting, this work allowed comprehensive evaluation of extraction solvents, in view of robust quality assessment and maximised utilisation of C. sativa. Extraction solvent selection is critical for the recovery of cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa L. and the phytochemical profile of the extracts. In this work, the majority of reported solvents for C. sativa extraction were compared. Combining results from UPLC‐PDA quantitative analysis with HPTLC fingerprinting, solvent efficiency towards specific cannabinoids was established, while extracts that are more comprehensive of all compound classes were revealed. Amid the sparsity of official guidelines, these results are highly relevant and may contribute to standardisation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homemade diets integrated with functional ingredients may help to ensure that companion animals have a good life quality given the rise in their average lifespan. This study investigates the effects of a complete and well-balanced homemade diet supplemented with hulled hemp seeds. Twelve adult dogs divided into two groups: CTRL, fed the basal diet and HEMP, fed the diet integrated hulled Cannabis sativa L. seeds (4 g/100g of ration) were enrolled in the trial. The following samples were collected: (a) individual faecal samples to assess the diet digestibility through an indirect method of acid-insoluble ash; b) blood samples to evaluate the oxidative state through an OXI adsorbent test; and c) rectal swabs for intestinal microbiota analysis (alpha- and beta-diversity and taxonomy). The results reveal that with respect to the commercial diet used in this study, our homemade diet increased the total and protein digestibility (total: 53.97 ± 2.54% and 58.20 ± 2.58%; p <.030; protein: 70.54 ± 2.01% and 82.78 ± 5.35%; p <.001). The change in diet positively altered the microbiota structure and increased beta-diversity index significantly (p <.010). The hemp seeds significantly (p <.001) reduced the oxidative stress in the serum. This study highlights how hemp increases the body's defences and that a homemade diet promotes diversity in the gut microbial population. The homemade diet increased digestibility and microbiota diversity. Hulled hemp seeds in dog diets increase the body's defences [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terpene synthases (TPSs) regulate plant growth, development, and stress response. TPS genes have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana and Zea mays. Cannabis sativa TPS genes were identified and analyzed using bioinformatics. Genomic data were downloaded from Plant Transcription Factor Database and National Center for Biotechnology Information database, and TPS genes were predicted, analyzed, and visualized using ExPASy, PlantCare, and other online websites along with TBtools, MEGA software, and other software. To verify its role, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) tests were conducted. The Cannabis sativa TPS family comprises 41 elements distributed over 8 chromosomes and a single scaffold segment. The isoelectric point varied between 4.96 and 7.03, while the molecular weight spanned from 20705.90 to 102324.64 Da. The majority of genes were found in the cytoplasm and chloroplasts, with the remainder situated in the peroxisome, nucleus, plasma membrane, and mitochondria. Several cis-acting components associated with stress response were present in the gene's upstream promoter region. Data from RNA sequencing and qRT-PCR revealed specific expression of TPS genes in all five organs of female Cannabis sativa plants. Collinearity analysis showed 4 homologous gene pairs between the Cannabis sativa and Arabidopsis thaliana, with many pairs of homologous genes in other species, which was consistent with the dicotyledons evolutionary relationship. Furthermore, some genes may participate in Cannabis sativa growth and development and play a role in secondary metabolite synthesis. Therefore, bioinformatics analysis of the Cannabis sativa TPS gene family provides a theoretical basis for future research on the volatile terpene compounds of Cannabis sativa.

AbstractIn July 2021, wilting symptoms were observed in adult and seedling hemp (Cannabis sativa L. cv. Cherry Blossom) plants grown in a greenhouse. As the disease progressed, yellowing and wilting symptoms on the leaves developed, resulting in whole plant death. In seedling plants, typical damping-off symptoms were observed. To identify the pathogen, the roots of diseased plants were sampled, surface sterilized, and cultured on potato dextrose agar (PDA) media. From the culture, 4 different fungal isolates were recovered and purely cultured. Each fungal isolate showed distinct growth shapes and color development on malt extract agar, oatmeal agar, sabouraud dextrose agar, and PDA media. Microscopic observation and molecular identification using ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer sequencing identified them as 3 Fusarium spp. and 1 Thielaviopsis paradoxa. Additional sequencing of elongation factor 1-alpha and β-tubulin regions of 3 Fusarium spp. revealed that 2 of them are Fusarium solani, and the other one is Fusarium proliferatum. To examine which isolate can act as a causal agent of wilt disease of hemp, each isolate was tested for their pathogenicity. In the pathogenicity test, F. solani AMCF1 and AMCF2, and F. proliferatum AMCF3, but not T. paradoxa AMCF4, were able to cause wilting disease in hemp seedlings. Therefore, we report that F. solani AMCF1 and AMCF2, and F. proliferatum AMCF3 as causal agents of Fusarium wilt of hemp plants. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the wilt disease of C. sativa L. caused by Fusarium spp. in Korea.

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a minor cannabinoid present in Cannabis sativa L. This molecule is gaining increasing popularity thanks to its antibacterial, antimicrobial, antidepressant and antitumoral properties. In parallel, there is growing attention towards the search of efficient, cost-effective, rapid, high-throughput, and green purification techniques.In this work, CBG has been purified from a real cannabis extract by means of simulated moving bed chromatography. The proposed application is very promising, allowing to achieve a CBG extract free of tetrahydrocannabinol (a psychoactive cannabinoid) with 100% recovery and 97% final purity by using a faster and greener method if compared to traditionally used ones.

Navadna konoplja (Cannabis sativa L.) je razširjena rastlina z zapleteno fitokemijo in bogatim sekundarnim metabolizmom. Sekundarni metaboliti so snovi, katerih vloga je interakcija rastline z okoljem. Njihova sinteza je pogojena s prisotnostjo stresa in je energetsko zelo potratna. Rastline varujejo pred škodljivci in patogeni ter abiotskimi dejavniki. V konoplji so v največji meri prisotni kanabinodi, terpenodi in flavonoidi, skoncentrirani v socvetjih ženskih rastlin. Njihova ekološka vloga in delovanje ni povsem raziskano. Kanabinoidi Δ-9-trans-tetrahidrokanabinol (Δ9-THC), kanabidiolna kislina (CBDA) in drugi naj bi bili vpleteni v antioksidativne procese in obrambni sistem rastline, zaradi prostorsko izolirane sinteze in citotoksičnih stranskih produktov. Ob prisotnosti stresa pride do povečanja njihove vsebnosti in spremembe kemijskega profila. Stres aktivira stresne signalne molekule – jasmonsko kislino in njene derivate, ki vplivajo na sproščanje terpenodiov, ter poveča izražanje genov v fenilpropanoidni poti, ki je ključna za sintezo flavonoidov. Sekundarni metaboliti delujejo sinergično in v povezavi z mikrobiomom – endofitnimi bakterijami in glivami – negativno vplivajo na škodljive organizme ter varujejo rastlino.

The constant concern about environmental issues has led to the growth of researches about eco-friendly materials. Among them, the natural lignocellulosic fibers have already presented their potential in place of petroleum-based synthetics. However, a relevant number of studies still have to deal with their disadvantages, such as the weak bond on the matrices for a composite performance and limited thermal performance. Thus, the present study analyzes a combination of alkaline treatment and graphene oxide coating in hemp fibers, an NLF applied in several products but with few investigations in engineering applications. The hemp fibers were thermally characterized with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The GO-coating was evidenced by the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. Changes in crystallinity were presented by X-ray diffraction (XRD). It was observed an increase of about 4% to 11% of the crystallinity after the alkaline treatment. The thermal stability rose about 13°C in the 10 wt% NaOH-treated and GO-coated fibers, and a change of about 3.5°C was detected for the glass transition temperature. The GO-coating effect was also evidenced by changes in Raman spectra and FTIR curves and was visually detected in the scanning electron microscope (SEM).

The study aims to investigate industrial hemp growing potential in the Nordic-Baltic region, to assess the impact of various agrotechnological measures on macro: calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and micronutrient: boron, iron, manganese, copper, zinc accumulation in hemp seeds, and to determine biologically active compounds and beneficial elements: elements cobalt, aluminum, sodium accumulation trends. Obtained results indicate that hemp seeds are rich in K (0.69–0.90%) followed by P (0.41–0.51%), Mg (0.42–0.46%), and Ca (0.10–0.19%). It was determined that Fe (181–334 mg/kg) was the main abundant microelement followed by Mn (58–81 mg/kg), Zn (55–68 mg/kg), Cu (13–20 mg/kg), and B (7–16 mg/kg) independently from applied agrotechnological measures. The amount of biologically active compounds ranged from 6.55 to 12.39 mg/gRUE and from 2.52 to 4.74 mg/gRUE, respectively, for TPC and TFC. A significant amount of beneficial elements Al (6.0–12.6 mg/kg) and Na (0.90–16.1 mg/kg) except Co were obtained. Results presented in this study indicate that seeds of industrial hemp grown in the Nordic-Baltic region could be considered as an important source of essential minerals and biologically active compounds.

Introduction: Cannabis sativa L. inflorescences are rich in secondary metabolites, particularly cannabinoids. The most common techniques for elucidating cannabinoid composition are expensive technologies, such as high‐pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Objectives: We aimed to develop and evaluate the performance of a novel fluorescence spectroscopy‐based method coupled with N‐way partial least squares regression (N‐PLS‐R) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) models to replace the expensive chromatographic methods for preharvest cannabinoid quantification. Methodology: Fresh medicinal cannabis inflorescences were collected and ethanol extracts were prepared. Their excitation–emission spectra were measured using fluorescence spectroscopy and their cannabinoid contents were determined by HPLC‐PDA. Subsequently, N‐PLS‐R and PLS‐DA models were applied to the excitation–emission matrices (EEMs) for cannabinoid concentration prediction and cultivar classification, respectively. Results: The N‐PLS‐R model was based on a set of EEMs (n = 82) and provided good to excellent quantification of (−)‐Δ9‐trans‐tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, cannabidiolic acid, cannabigerolic acid, cannabichromenic acid, and (−)‐Δ9‐trans‐tetrahydrocannabinol (R2CV and R2pred > 0.75; RPD > 2.3 and RPIQ > 3.5; RMSECV/RMSEC ratio < 1.4). The PLS‐DA model enabled a clear distinction between the four major classes studied (sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the prediction sets were all ≥0.9). Conclusions: The fluorescence spectral region (excitation 220–400 nm, emission 280–550 nm) harbors sufficient information for accurate prediction of cannabinoid contents and accurate classification using a relatively small data set. Common techniques for elucidating cannabinoid composition are expensive chromatographic technologies. We aimed to develop novel fluorescence spectroscopy‐based method coupled with N‐way partial least squares regression (N‐PLS‐R) and discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) models to replace chromatographic methods for cannabinoid quantification. Fresh cannabis inflorescences were collected and analyzed using fluorescence spectroscopy and their cannabinoid contents determined by HPLC for correlation purposes. The N‐PLS‐R model provided good quantification of major cannabinoids, and the PLS‐DA model enabled clear distinction between four major cannabis classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a key metabolite with high medical values in industrial hemp, cannabidiol (CBD) has been paid increasing attention. However, how nutrient supply affects the CBD content and yield of hemp remains unclear. Therefore, an aeroponic experiment with nine treatments (A1~A9) was conducted to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of nitrogen (N, at 4.0, 6.0, and 8.0 mmol L−1), phosphorus (P, at 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mmol L−1), and potassium (K, at 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 mmol L−1) on the growth, CBD content, and biomass of hemp. Results showed that at A7 (N8P1K5) (N, P, K: 8, 1, 5 mmol L−1) markedly enhanced the dry weight of shoot and inflorescence with an increment of 208.7% and 435.7% respectively; the equivalent number of total CBD content in inflorescence was increased by 41.8%, and the CBD yield was increased by 7.0 times compared with A3 (N4P2K5). Correlation analysis revealed that N was positively related to the CBD yield, while P or K had a negligible effect on CBD yield. In conclusion, nutrient supply would dramatically influence the growth and CBD yield of hemp. Under the experimental conditions, A7 (N8P1K5) is the most suitable choice to cultivate hemp and achieve a higher CBD yield.

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The study aims to investigate industrial hemp growing potential in the Nordic-Baltic region, to assess the impact of various agrotechnological measures on macro: calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and micronutrient: boron, iron, manganese, copper, zinc accumulation in hemp seeds, and to determine biologically active compounds and beneficial elements: elements cobalt, aluminum, sodium accumulation trends. Obtained results indicate that hemp seeds are rich in K (0.69-0.90%) followed by P (0.41-0.51%), Mg (0.42-0.46%), and Ca (0.10-0.19%). It was determined that Fe (181-334 mg/kg) was the main abundant microelement followed by Mn (58-81 mg/kg), Zn (55-68 mg/kg), Cu (13-20 mg/kg), and B (7-16 mg/kg) independently from applied agrotechnological measures. The amount of biologically active compounds ranged from 6.55 to 12.39 mg/gRUE and from 2.52 to 4.74 mg/gRUE, respectively, for TPC and TFC. A significant amount of beneficial elements Al (6.0-12.6 mg/kg) and Na (0.90-16.1 mg/kg) except Co were obtained. Results presented in this study indicate that seeds of industrial hemp grown in the Nordic-Baltic region could be considered as an important source of essential minerals and biologically active compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The constant concern about environmental issues has led to the growth of researches about eco-friendly materials. Among them, the natural lignocellulosic fibers have already presented their potential in place of petroleum-based synthetics. However, a relevant number of studies still have to deal with their disadvantages, such as the weak bond on the matrices for a composite performance and limited thermal performance. Thus, the present study analyzes a combination of alkaline treatment and graphene oxide coating in hemp fibers, an NLF applied in several products but with few investigations in engineering applications. The hemp fibers were thermally characterized with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The GO-coating was evidenced by the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. Changes in crystallinity were presented by X-ray diffraction (XRD). It was observed an increase of about 4% to 11% of the crystallinity after the alkaline treatment. The thermal stability rose about 13°C in the 10 wt% NaOH-treated and GO-coated fibers, and a change of about 3.5°C was detected for the glass transition temperature. The GO-coating effect was also evidenced by changes in Raman spectra and FTIR curves and was visually detected in the scanning electron microscope (SEM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research aims to give an added value to the chain production of Cannabis sativa L plant, taking advantage of the non-psychoactive residual biomass (stems and leaves). Total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were analysed. A factorial design 23 was carried out using extraction time (T), Particle size (PS), and solid-solvent ratio (SS) as factors. The extractions were made with ethanol at 96% as solvent. The maximum concentration of TPC found was 1264.61 mg GA/g DW at 6:250 g/mL, 8 h, and 109.28 µm for SS, T and PS, respectively. Similarly, the maximum TAC obtained was 0.467 mM Trolox equivalent, at 8 h, 6:250 g/mL and 109.28 µm for T, SS and PS, respectively. Additionally, the presence of oil was found in some samples of cannabis extracts for which FITR was performed, obtaining the presence of C-OH bonds associated with alcohols, phenols and possible cannabinoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabis sativa L., one of humanity's oldest cultivated crops, has a complex domestication history due to its diverse uses for fibre, seed, oil and drugs, and its wide geographic distribution. This review explores how human selection has shaped the biology of hemp and drug-type Cannabis, focusing on acquisition and utilisation of nitrogen and phosphorus, and how resulting changes in source-sink relations shape their contrasting phenology. Hemp has been optimized for rapid, slender growth and nutrient efficiency, whereas drug-type cultivars have been selected for compact growth with large phytocannabinoid producing female inflorescences. Understanding these nutrient use and ontogenetic differences will enhance our general understanding of resource allocation in plants. Knowledge gained in comparison with other model species, such as tomato, rice or Arabidopsis thaliana can help inform crop improvement and sustainability in the Cannabis industry., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Experimental Biology.)

Protein‐energy malnutrition is a global challenge that demands urgent attention, especially with the increasing population growth and unmatched food security plans. One strategy is to expand the list of protein sources, such as neglected and underutilized crops, with high protein content. A good number of plant proteins, in addition to their nutritional benefits, exert therapeutic properties as seen in seeds derived from legumes and emerging sources such as hemp. In this review, the transepithelial transport, functional, and biological properties of hempseed proteins (HSPs) and peptides were discussed. The review also described the potential safety issues of incorporating hempseeds in food products. Due to the multitargeted effects of hempseed‐derived proteins and their peptides against many chronic diseases, and their functional properties, current knowledge shows that hempseed has tremendous potential for functional food and nutraceutical applications. Practical applications: The alarming rate of malnutrition and the attendant health consequences demand that underexploited nutrient‐rich crops should be incorporated as part of our common dietary sources. Among these crops, hempseed is gaining attention as an emerging source of proteins and peptides with promising potential in prevention and management of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, and diseases whose etiology involves oxidative stress and inflammation. Fortunately, a growing body of research evidence is demonstrating that hempseed is a reservoir of proteins and peptides with nutraceutical potentials for curbing life‐threatening diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Comprehensive characterization of seized cannabis flowering tops by means of multiple GC-based approaches. • Simultaneous enantiomeric and isotopic characterization of target terpenes by means of multidimensional gas chromatography. • GC-FID and GC–MS analysis for the quali-quantitative characterization of the target volatiles. • Statistical analysis in order to group the twenty-five samples investigated, according to experimental data and place and data of seizure. This research aimed to support police forces in their battle against illicit drug trafficking by means of a multi-technique approach, based on gas chromatography. In detail, this study was focused on the profiling of volatile substances in narcotic Cannabis sativa L. flowering tops. For this purpose, the Scientific Investigation Department, RIS Carabinieri of Messina, provided 25 seized samples of Cannabis sativa L. The content of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), useful to classify cannabis plant as hemp (≤ 0.2 %) or as marijuana (> 0.2 %), was investigated. Essential oils of illicit drug samples were extracted using a microwave-assisted hydro-distillation (MAHD) system; GC–MS and GC-FID analytical techniques were used for the characterization of the terpenes and terpenoids fingerprint. Furthermore, the enantiomeric and carbon isotopic ratios of selected chiral compounds were investigated using a heart-cutting multidimensional GC (MDGC) approach. The latter exploited a combination of an apolar column in the first dimension, and a chiral cyclodextrin-based column in the second one, prior to parallel isotope-ratio mass spectrometry (C-IRMS) and MS detection. Finally, all the data were gathered into a statistical model, to demonstrate the existence of useful parameters to be used for the classification of seized samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the chemical components and potential health benefits of the fruits of Cannabis sativa L. Fourteen new phenylpropanamides designated as cannabisin I-XIV ( 1 - 14 ) and 40 known analogs were isolated and characterized via nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and electronic circular dichroism. In vitro bioassay using H 2 O 2 -induced PC12 cell damage models demonstrated that hempseeds extract and compounds 1 , 3 , 15 , 26 , 30 , 36 , 41 , and 48 exhibited neuroprotective properties. 3,3'-Demethylgrossamide ( 30 ) displayed encouraging protection activity, which was further investigated to relieve the oxidative stress and apoptosis of PC12 cells treated with H 2 O 2 . The isolation and characterization of these neuroprotective phenylpropanamides from the fruits of C. sativa provide insights into its health-promoting properties as a healthy food and herbal medicine for preventing and treating neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer's disease.

Cannflavin A (CFL-A), a flavonoid present in the hemp plant Cannabis sativa L. ( C. sativa ), has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective capacity. Research continues to elucidate the anti-inflammatory effects of components of C. sativa , with evidence that plant-derived cannabinoids and terpenes can mediate anti-inflammatory activity by targeting toll-like receptor (TLR) signalling, the sensors of pathogen-associated molecules. This study set out to determine if TLR-mediated inflammatory signalling is a CFL-A target using the endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce TLR4 signalling in human THP-1-derived macrophages. TLR4 activation promoted the production of the chemokine CXCL10 and cytokines IL-1β and TNFα. Treatment with CFL-A dose-dependently attenuated TLR4-induced CXCL10 and IL-1β secretion, with our findings also indicating that the inhibitory effects of CFL-A on chemokine/cytokine secretion are in line with an NF-κB inhibitor. This study highlights TLR4 signalling as a cannflavin target in macrophages.

Two novel phenylpropanoid amides, namely huomarenamide A ( 1 ) and huomarenamide B ( 2 ), along with twelve known compounds ( 3 - 14 ), were isolated from the seeds of Cannabis sativa L. The structures with absolute configurations of new compounds were unequivocally determined by spectroscopic analyses and the ECD method. The identification of the known compounds was based on a comparison of their 1D NMR data with literature references. All compounds were assessed for cytotoxic activity against LN229 cells, revealing that compounds 2 , 13 , and 14 exhibited significant cytotoxicity with IC 50 values ranging from 9.02 to 21.26 μM.

Terpene synthases ( TPSs ) regulate plant growth, development, and stress response. TPS genes have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana and Zea mays . Cannabis sativa TPS genes were identified and analyzed using bioinformatics. Genomic data were downloaded from Plant Transcription Factor Database and National Center for Biotechnology Information database, and TPS genes were predicted, analyzed, and visualized using ExPASy, PlantCare, and other online websites along with TBtools, MEGA software, and other software. To verify its role, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) tests were conducted. The Cannabis sativa TPS family comprises 41 elements distributed over 8 chromosomes and a single scaffold segment. The isoelectric point varied between 4.96 and 7.03, while the molecular weight spanned from 20705.90 to 102324.64 Da. The majority of genes were found in the cytoplasm and chloroplasts, with the remainder situated in the peroxisome, nucleus, plasma membrane, and mitochondria. Several cis -acting components associated with stress response were present in the gene's upstream promoter region. Data from RNA sequencing and qRT-PCR revealed specific expression of TPS genes in all five organs of female Cannabis sativa plants. Collinearity analysis showed 4 homologous gene pairs between the Cannabis sativa and Arabidopsis thaliana , with many pairs of homologous genes in other species, which was consistent with the dicotyledons evolutionary relationship. Furthermore, some genes may participate in Cannabis sativa growth and development and play a role in secondary metabolite synthesis. Therefore, bioinformatics analysis of the Cannabis sativa TPS gene family provides a theoretical basis for future research on the volatile terpene compounds of Cannabis sativa ., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Heat shock transcription factors (HSFs), play a crucial role in plant growth, development and defense processes. The functions of some HSFs have been well studied in response some stresses in model plants. At present, the genome of the medicinal plant Cannabis sativa L. has been fully sequenced. Nevertheless, there is little known about the HSF genes family in Cannabis sativa L, as well as a lack of understanding of its evolutionary history. Herein, 18 HSFs were identified in the cannabis genome and phylogenetically classified into three groups based on the structural characteristics and phylogenetic analysis, including classes A (9 genes), classes B (8 genes), and classes C (1 gene). They were distributed over 9 of 10 chromosomes without chromosome 8. Then, the motif composition and evolutionary relationship of CsHSF proteins are discussed in detail, along with gene structures, cis -acting elements in the promoter, and synchronization analysis. Furthermore, our results also revealed that CsHSF transcription levels varied significantly among tissues, suggesting that the functions of CsHSF may be different. Finally, we found that red and blue light treatments had a significant effect on HSF genes expression and cannabinoids accumulation in vegetative organs of hemp young seedlings, implying the expression of HSF genes may regulate the content of cannabinoids under different light conditions. Although cannabinoid biosynthesis and response to light in vegetative organs of hemp young seedlings may not represent the mature stage of hemp, these results provided an essential theoretical basis to elucidate the regulatory mechanism of HSF in cannabinoid biosynthesis in the future. • A total of 18 HSFs were identified in the cannabis genome. • CsHSF transcription levels varied significantly among tissues. • There were large numbers of light responsiveness elements in all 18 CsHSF promoters. • Light treatment affected the expression of several stress-responsive HSF genes and the accumulation of cannabinoid in vegetative organs of hemp seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabis sativa L. has been recognised as a narcotic drug in different parts of the world. The current report deals with the screening of the chemical profiles of the essential oils (EOs) and volatiles obtained from the aerial ports of Cannabis sativa L. (APCS) using classical hydrodistillation (HD), solid phase microextraction (SPME) along with a new technique namely innovative cigarette ignition (Incigig); all in combination with GC/MS. The characterised profiles had considerable differences from quantitative and qualitative points of view, with a high prevalence of non-terpene hydrocarbons for the EO and oxygenated monoterpenes for both volatiles using SPME and Incigig approaches.