Ex vivo cannabinoids and liposomal immunomodulation in keratinocytes

Overview

This research investigates how cannabinoids — specifically Cannabigerol (CBG), Dronabinol (THC), and Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) — modulate cytokine levels in keratinocytes, the primary cell type of the epidermis. The work examines both direct effects on cellular metabolism and interactions with multiple receptor systems, including the endocannabinoid system, opioid receptors, and PPARs (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors). A key innovation is the development of liposomal formulations using unsaturated phospholipids, designed to enhance delivery, bioavailability, and synergistic immunomodulation. Potential applications include therapeutic interventions for skin inflammation, wound healing, and dermatological conditions involving immune dysregulation.

Technical specifications

Core research capabilities:

• Evaluation of cannabinoid combinations (CBG, THC, PEA) on cytokine expression (IL-6, IL-8) in HaCaT keratinocyte cell lines
• Metabolomic profiling using mass spectrometry and NMR to trace metabolic pathway alterations following cannabinoid treatment
• Ex vivo skin tissue evaluation combining culture techniques and microscopy to assess cytokines and tissue viability
• Liposomal formulation development using unsaturated phospholipids to improve cannabinoid delivery and cellular targeting
• Immunohistochemical analysis of interleukins (IL-17, IL-22, IL-8, IL-6) and inflammation markers in treated tissues
• Flow cytometry quantification of endocannabinoid, opioid, and PPAR receptor expression
• In silico computational modeling of cannabinoid-receptor interaction dynamics
• Mathematical model development describing cannabinoid-receptor signaling effects

Technology readiness level

The research is at an early-to-mid stage of development. Preliminary findings have demonstrated that cannabinoid combinations decrease IL-6 and IL-8 expression in HaCaT cells. The team is now advancing through systematic validation steps including ex vivo tissue evaluation, metabolomic correlation studies, liposomal formulation optimization, and computational modeling. Future work will focus on validating the liposomal delivery system's efficacy compared to free cannabinoid forms and developing a comprehensive mathematical model of receptor interaction dynamics.