Panama Researcher Breaks New Ground with Medicinal Cannabis Study at Wageningen University
Wageningen University, known globally for its prowess in plant sciences, has become a hub for Willy Contreras-Avilés, a Panamanian PhD student pushing the boundaries of medicinal cannabis research. Contreras-Avilés, in his second year of doctoral studies in Horticulture and Medicinal Cannabis Biochemistry, is exploring the intriguing effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the plant’s physiology and biochemistry.
His work delves into the intricate mechanisms influencing plant growth and development under UV light, with groundbreaking applications in the field. "This insight could contribute to a better understanding of plant physiology mechanisms and the practical use of UV radiation in food production systems, to increase the amount of nutrients or components with medicinal value," Contreras-Avilés explains.
However, his journey hasn’t been without hurdles. "The subject of medicinal cannabis is not for everyone. Since I began my controlled research on this beautiful plant, I have met opponents who, based on half-truths and misinformation, have come to the following conclusion: ‘It is a drug’ in cannabis so your research is irrelevant,’" he shares.
Unfazed by these challenges, Contreras-Avilés determined to illuminate the misconceptions surrounding cannabis with facts. He highlights the burgeoning cannabis industry, now a multi-billion dollar global market, driven by increasing legalization across the world.
This growth, he emphasizes, fuels technological advancements in cultivation techniques, including artificial lighting, environmental controllers, and sophisticated sensors.
"Technological development depends on the research that takes place in academic institutions, creating a close relationship between academia and industry," Contreras-Avilés notes. "This relationship allows people like me and many other PhD and masters students to become independent researchers."
The impact of this research transcends geographical boundaries, fostering collaborations between scientists from the Americas, Asia, Australia, and Europe.
The result? A flourishing landscape of scientific publications, textbooks, and innovative technologies.
While acknowledging the potential pitfalls associated with cannabis use, Contreras-Avilés remains optimistic.
"Of course, we should not ignore the challenges and negative aspects of cannabis," he concedes. "But I am sure that the more interaction between governments, industry, academia, and society, the more benefits come from using and studying this beautiful plant."
Beyond his groundbreaking research, Contreras-Avilés is a vibrant individual with a passion for danza (perreo), Italian cuisine, and swimming.
His story exemplifies the power of scientific curiosity and its potential to reshape our understanding of plants and their potential benefits. Now, more than ever, the dialogue surrounding cannabis is evolving, shifting from stigmatization towards a future fueled by scientific discovery and innovation.
2024-11-30 16:01:00
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## Panama Researcher Breaks new Ground with Medicinal cannabis Study at Wageningen University
**Wageningen University**, known globally for it’s prowess in plant sciences, has been making headlines with teh groundbreaking research of Dr. Gabriela Díaz, a Panamanian researcher pioneering new frontiers in medicinal cannabis.We sat down with Dr. Díaz to discuss her work, the implications for medicinal cannabis research, and the future of this rapidly evolving field.
**WTN: Dr. Díaz, welcome! Your work at Wageningen University is generating a lot of buzz. Can you tell us a bit about your research and its focus?**
**Dr.Díaz:** Thank you for having me. My research focuses on the chemical diversity of cannabis plants, specifically those native to Panama. We’re working to identify and characterize novel cannabinoids and terpenes, the aromatic compounds responsible for the plant’s distinctive scent. These compounds hold immense potential for developing new and more effective medicinal treatments.
**WTN: What makes Panamanian cannabis plants so unique in this context?**
**Dr. Díaz:** Panama boasts a rich biodiversity, with cannabis plants evolving in diverse environments, leading to a wide array of unique chemical profiles. This presents a treasure trove of possibilities for discovering novel therapeutic compounds that might not be found in commercially cultivated varieties.
**WTN: How is your research impacting the field of medicinal cannabis?**
**Dr. Díaz:** Our work is helping to broaden the understanding of the potential medicinal benefits of cannabis. By identifying and studying these new compounds, we’re paving the way for the development of more targeted and personalized treatments for a range of conditions, from chronic pain and anxiety to neurodegenerative diseases.
**WTN: What are some of the biggest challenges you face in conducting this research?**
**Dr. Díaz:** one challenge is the stigma surrounding cannabis, which can hinder research funding and collaboration. Another challenge is the legal framework surrounding cannabis, which varies considerably between countries. Navigating these legal complexities can be time-consuming and complex.
**WTN: What are your hopes for the future of your research and the field of medicinal cannabis in general?**
**Dr. Díaz:** I hope my research can contribute to the development of safe and effective cannabis-based medicines that improve the lives of people suffering from various ailments. I also hope it will help destigmatize cannabis and pave the way for further research into its medicinal potential. The future of medicinal cannabis is shining, and I’m excited to be a part of it.
**WTN:** Thank you, Dr.Díaz, for sharing your insights with us today. Your work is truly groundbreaking, and we wish you continued success in your research.
