McConnell’s Hemp Ban & The Schedule III Mirage: A Lesson In Cannabis Industry Myopia

OG article by Robert Hoban November 14, 2025

A groundbreaking laboratory study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences has unveiled the potent immunomodulatory properties of CAN296, a cannabidiol-rich cannabis extract. Conducted by researchers from the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the research focused on its effects on human T cells, specifically CD4+ helper T cells and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells isolated from healthy donors. The extract was rigorously compared to established immunosuppressive drugs like dexamethasone and tacrolimus, revealing superior performance in suppressing immune responses.

In detailed experiments, CAN296 consistently reduced T cell activation markers, slashing CD69 expression to as low as 2–11% in CD4+ cells and 5–17% in CD8+ cells across a range of concentrations. Pro-inflammatory cytokine production was dramatically curtailed: TNF-α levels dropped significantly in CD4+ cells at every dose, while in CD8+ cells, both TNF-α and IFN-γ were rendered nearly undetectable—outpacing the effects of the comparator drugs. Cytotoxic molecule expression also plummeted, with Granzyme B reduced by 81–82%, Perforin by 40–53%, and Fas Ligand by 40–44%. Dexamethasone showed inconsistent results, and tacrolimus failed to reliably impact cytokines or cytotoxic markers.

The study's authors emphasize CAN296's consistency and potency, positioning it as a promising candidate for treating T cell-mediated disorders such as oral lichen planus and graft-versus-host disease manifestations. They advocate for further investigations into optimal dosing and clinical trials to translate these lab findings into therapeutic applications. This research not only highlights cannabis's therapeutic potential beyond pain relief but also underscores the need for nuanced regulatory frameworks that support innovative extract development. As immunomodulatory therapies evolve, CAN296 could bridge gaps in current treatments, offering a natural alternative with fewer side effects. Future studies may explore its synergy with existing drugs, potentially revolutionizing autoimmune and transplant medicine.