The impacts of a cannabis extract on brain pathology and memory impairments associated with Alzheimer's disease in an APP-NL-G-F transgenic mouse model

Abstract

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder that is categorized by progressive memory loss and cognitive deterioration. Amyloid-beta (Aꞵ) proteins accumulate within AD brains and trigger harmful chronic inflammation. By targeting both Aꞵ and inflammation, disease progression may be delayed. Cannabis is a plant containing THC and CBD. Previous work in our lab has shown that these compounds are ineffective at reducing AD pathology independently; however, research suggests they are more effective when combined. This project utilizes a THC/CBD combination extract to evaluate AD pathology in APP mice by assessing performance on memory-based behavioural tasks and by using protein markers to determine disease progression and severity. There were no treatment-related effects of the extract found via behavioural testing. However, the extract did decrease PFC 4G8-stained Aꞵ plaques. There were no other significant effects on Aꞵ, inflammation, or HPC cell volume found. Sex differences were found on various behavioural tasks.