InnoCan Pharma Ltd., a subsidiary of InnoCan Pharma Corporation, announced a sponsored research agreement with Tel Aviv University to develop a new, revolutionary approach to COVID-19 treatment using cannabidiol (CBD)-loaded exosomes.
Under the agreement, InnoCan will collaborate with a team led by Prof. Daniel Offen, a Tel Aviv University researcher specializing in neuroscience and exosome technology, to develop the cell-therapy-based product.
CBD-loaded exosomes have the potential to combine anti-inflammatory properties synergistically and help infected lung cells recover. The new technology, intended for administration by inhalation, will be tested against various lung infections.
Exosomes are small particles measuring 30–150 nm that may contain RNA and proteins and form when stem cells multiply. Combining their cell-healing properties with CBD's anti-inflammatory properties could make them act like “guided missiles” against disease. They also have an important role in cell-to-cell communication, potentially useful for additional treatments for central nervous system conditions such as epilepsy and Alzheimer's.
The COVID-19 pandemic and background
The world is experiencing a major rise in illness due to the rapid spread of COVID-19, with the lungs the most affected organs. The disease can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome, respiratory failure, septic shock, multiple organ failure and, in the most severe cases, death.
Recent studies suggest exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may promote regeneration and improve immune reactions in damaged tissues. They contain anti-inflammatory agents capable of targeting inflamed organs.
Prof. Offen and his team have successfully loaded exosomes with various molecules. They have also treated different tissue injuries in animal models while substantially reducing inflammation and pathological damage.
Animal studies have shown CBD effective in reducing lung inflammation. Based on these findings, InnoCan believes CBD-loaded exosomes have the potential to treat COVID-19 and create therapeutic synergies.
Prof. Daniel Offen said: “I am pleased to work with the InnoCan team on this exciting CLX development project. We are going through difficult times, and our unique approach promises a possible treatment for COVID-19, pneumonia and perhaps other lung inflammations.”
InnoCan CEO Iris Bincovich said: “COVID-19 has become one of healthcare's greatest challenges. We are creating a new treatment to combat its effects and join the global mission. We are determined to make a difference as quickly as possible to help patients worldwide.”
Source: https://english.tau.ac.il/news/covid19-exosomes-loaded-CBD
