Cannabigerol is a novel, well-tolerated appetite stimulant in pre-satiated rats

Abstract

RationaleThe appetite-stimulating properties of cannabis are well documented and have been predominantly attributed to the hyperphagic activity of the psychoactive phytocannabinoid, ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC). However, we have previously shown that a cannabis extract devoid of ∆9-THC still stimulates appetite, indicating that other phytocannabinoids also elicit hyperphagia. One possible candidate is the non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid cannabigerol (CBG), which has affinity for several molecular targets with known involvement in the regulation of feeding behaviour.ObjectivesThe objective of the study was to assess the effects of CBG on food intake and feeding pattern microstructure.MethodsMale Lister hooded rats were administered CBG (30–120 mg/kg, per ora (p.o.)) or placebo and assessed in open field, static beam and grip strength tests to determine a neuromotor tolerability profile for this cannabinoid. Subsequently, CBG (at 30–240 mg/kg, p.o.) or placebo was administered to a further group of pre-satiated rats, and hourly intake and meal pattern data were recorded over 2 h.ResultsCBG produced no adverse effects on any parameter in the neuromotor tolerability test battery. In the feeding assay, 120–240 mg/kg CBG more than doubled total food intake and increased the number of meals consumed, and at 240 mg/kg reduced latency to feed. However, the sizes or durations of individual meals were not significantly increased.ConclusionsHere, we demonstrate for the first time that CBG elicits hyperphagia, by reducing latency to feed and increasing meal frequency, without producing negative neuromotor side effects. Investigation of the therapeutic potential of CBG for conditions such as cachexia and other disorders of eating and body weight regulation is thus warranted.

A cannabigerol-rich Cannabis sativa extract, devoid of ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol, elicits hyperphagia in rats

“…All groups n = 16, * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01. † Data for purified CBG has been previously published (Brierley et al 2016a), and is reproduced here for comparison with CBG-BDS.…”

“…Although determining the mechanism of action for this hyperphagia was beyond the scope of these studies, we have previously speculated on putative mechanisms based on the published in vitro affinities and activities of CBG (Brierley et al 2016a). In light of the apparent greater potency of CBG-BDS, such speculation can be extended based on the differential affinities and activities reported in comparative in vitro studies of the purified and BDS forms (De Petrocellis et al 2011).…”

“…The effects of CBG-BDS on feeding behaviour were investigated using our pre-feed satiation paradigm, as fully detailed in previous reports (Brierley et al 2016a;Brierley et al 2016b). All experiments were performed in accordance with UK Home Office regulations [Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986].…”

“…Using our well-established pre-feed satiation paradigm, we have recently shown that purified CBG stimulates multiple components of feeding behaviour, without detrimental motoric side-effects (Brierley et al 2016a). …”

Chemotherapy‐induced cachexia dysregulates hypothalamic and systemic lipoamines and is attenuated by cannabigerol

“…In addition to Δ 9 ‐THC, there are now known to be over 100 other phytocannabinoids in C. sativa , the majority of which are non‐psychoactive, some of which have appetite‐modulating effects . We have recently shown that cannabigerol (CBG), a non‐psychoactive phytocannabinoid, increases food intake in healthy rats without eliciting neuromotor side effects . Given that patients undergoing chemotherapy commonly report appetite loss, altered food palatability, and early satiety, CBG may have potential to attenuate these anorectic side effects.…”