Malceva et al., 2011: Changes of photosynthesis-related parameters and productivity of Cannabis sativa under different nitrogen supply

Abstract:
The interest in cultivated plants that produce high-quality raw materials with a wide application spectrum has increased. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of different doses of nitrogen fertilizer on physiological processes of hemp plants and to evaluate its effect on several yield parameters, including seed and fiver yield and quality. The efficiency of different nitrogen supply was evaluated both in controlled and field conditions using hemp cultivar of Latvian origin ‘Pūriņi’, possibly suitable for local conditions. Yield parameters of hemp in field conditions varied both by years and by treatments. Additional nitrogen supply had positive effect on plant height, while no siginifcant difference between various doses of nitrogen supplied was observed. Additional nitrogen supply had negative effect on hemp fiber content in 2008 and 2009, and no signifcant effect in 2010. Seed yield ranged from 1050 to 2557 kg ha–1, depending both on particular climatic conditions and the rate of additonal fertilization. The yield signifcantly increased in the N+60 treatment in all years in comparison to control plants. Hemp seed oil content was not signifcantly affected by additional nitrogen fertilization. A high proportion of linoleic acid in hempseed oil was found, followed by α-linolenic acid, oleic acid and palmitic acid. In laboratory conditions, increase in both leaf nitrogen concentration and chlorophyll content in hemp plants, additionally fertilized with nitrogen, did not depend on the particular dose. Additional nitrogen fertilization signifcantly affected different aspects of photochemistry of photosynthesis, as shown by chlorophyll a fluorescence analysis. According to yield data, the hemp cv. ‘Pūriņi’ is well-suited for both seed and fiber production in temperate conditions.

Paper in full: http://eeb.lu.lv/EEB/201108/EEB_9_Malceva.pdf
 
Greydanus et al., 2013: Marijuana: Current Concepts

Abstract:
Marijuana (cannabis) remains a controversial drug in the twenty-first century. This paper considers current research on use of Cannabis sativa and its constituents such as the cannabinoids. Topics reviewed include prevalence of cannabis (pot) use, other drugs consumed with pot, the endocannabinoid system, use of medicinal marijuana, medical adverse effects of cannabis, and psychiatric adverse effects of cannabis use. Treatment of cannabis withdrawal and dependence is difficult and remains mainly based on psychological therapy; current research on pharmacologic management of problems related to cannabis consump- tion is also considered. The potential role of specific cannabinoids for medical benefit will be revealed as the twenty-first century matures. However, potential dangerous adverse effects from smoking marijuana are well known and should be clearly taught to a public that is often confused by a media-driven, though false message and promise of benign pot consumption.

Paper in full: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3859982/pdf/fpubh-01-00042.pdf
 
Andre, CM. et al., 2016:
Cannabis sativa: The Plant of the Thousand and One Molecules

Great paper! A must read!

Abstract:
Cannabis sativa L. is an important herbaceous species originating from Central Asia, which has been used in folk medicine and as a source of textile fiber since the dawn of times. This fast-growing plant has recently seen a resurgence of interest because of its multi-purpose applications: it is indeed a treasure trove of phytochemicals and a rich source of both cellulosic and woody fibers. Equally highly interested in this plant are the pharmaceutical and construction sectors, since its metabolites show potent bioactivities on human health and its outer and inner stem tissues can be used to make bioplastics and concrete-like material, respectively. In this review, the rich spectrum of hemp phytochemicals is discussed by putting a special emphasis on molecules of industrial interest, including cannabinoids, terpenes and phenolic compounds, and their biosynthetic routes. Cannabinoids represent the most studied group of compounds, mainly due to their wide range of pharmaceutical effects in humans, including psychotropic activities. The therapeutic and commercial interests of some terpenes and phenolic compounds, and in particular stilbenoids and lignans, are also highlighted in view of the most recent literature data. Biotechnological avenues to enhance the production and bioactivity of hemp secondary metabolites are proposed by discussing the power of plant genetic engineering and tissue culture. In particular two systems are reviewed, i.e., cell suspension and hairy root cultures. Additionally, an entire section is devoted to hemp trichomes, in the light of their importance as phytochemical factories. Ultimately, prospects on the benefits linked to the use of the -omics technologies, such as metabolomics and transcriptomics to speed up the identification and the large-scale production of lead agents from bioengineered Cannabis cell culture, are presented.

Paper in full: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4740396/pdf/fpls-07-00019.pdf
 
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