Study: CBD Reduces Seizures and Brain Damage in Post-Traumatic Epilepsy Model

OG Article

Anthony Martinelli

05-30-2025

Researchers from Hunan University of Medicine and Ningxia Medical University in China conducted the study using a rat model of PTE triggered by ferric chloride (FeCl₃), including genetically modified rats with overexpressed TRPV1 receptors in the brain. CBD treatment led to a marked decrease in seizure severity and brain tissue damage. EEG monitoring showed that CBD reduced seizure-related electrical activity, including total power and spike-wave discharges.

At the molecular level, the study found that CBD inhibits the TRPV1/HSF1/HSP70 signaling pathway. Specifically, it blocks the phosphorylation of heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) by acting on TRPV1 receptors, which in turn suppresses the stress-induced expression of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70)—a pathway believed to contribute to seizure susceptibility and neuronal stress.The findings suggest that CBD may hold potential as a preventative treatment for PTE, a condition currently lacking effective prophylactic therapies.

The study concludes by stating “CBD exerts an anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effect on PTE rats by regulating the TRPV1/HSF1/HSP70 pathway and may be a potential drug for the prophylactic treatment of PTE.”