RELATED STUDY

The chemical composition of ethanolic extracts from six genotypes of medical cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) and their selective cytotoxic activity

Key Findings:  Cannabis flower-based ethanol extracts were taken from six different genotypes (Conspiracy Kush, Jilly Bean, Jack Cleaner 2, Jack Skellington, Nordle and Nurse Jackie) and assayed for their main cannabinoids and terpenes/terpenoids contents (average content of Δ9-THC in extracts was ~59%, and of CBD 1.8%; major terpenes/terpenoids detected in most genotypes included limonene, linalool, α-terpineol, β-caryophyllene, trans-α-bergamotene, α-humulene, β-caryophyllene oxide, guaiol, γ-eudesmol, β-eudesmol and α-bisabolol). Resulting data suggests that suggest that Δ9-THC and CBD were responsible for the in vitro cytotoxicity of the extracts. However, notable differences in effects on both cancer cell lines suggest synergies with the other plant constituents. For instance, higher concentrations of myrcene, β-elemene, β-selinene and α-bisabolol oxide found in the Jilly Bean genotype may enhance cytotoxic activity highlighting the importance of genotype-based testing.