Interactions between cannabidiol and Δ⁹ -tetrahydrocannabinol in modulating seizure susceptibility and survival in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Extracts from the cannabis plant can dramatically improve the health of children suffering from refractory epilepsies such as Dravet syndrome. These extracts typically contain cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid with well-documented anticonvulsant effects, but may also contain Δ⁹ -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹ -THC). It is unclear whether the presence of Δ⁹ -THC modulates the anticonvulsant efficacy of CBD. Here, we utilized the Scn1a^+/- mouse model of Dravet syndrome to examine this question.

Experimental approach

Scn1a^+/- mice recapitulate core features of Dravet syndrome, including hyperthermia-induced seizures, early onset spontaneous seizures and sudden death. We assessed the effects on CBD and Δ

SUBMITTER: Anderson LL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7443476 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature