Australian medicinal cannabis developer chooses Birmingham for UK research hub
An Australian medicinal cannabis developer is set to base its UK operations in Birmingham’s Precision Health Technologies Accelerator (PHTA).
Cannim, founded in 2017, curates products from across a network of manufacturers to develop medical cannabis through R&D.
It will be based in the first building to be completed on the University of Birmingham’s Birmingham Health Innovation Campus (BHIC), comprising 130,000 sq ft. Developed by Bruntwood in partnership with the University, BHIC is set to become a world-leading life sciences hub.
The partnership with PHTA will focus on expanding the understanding of the endocannabinoid system, a physiological system that helps maintain balance within the body. Cannim says that Phytocannabinoids (compounds found in the cannabis plant) have shown promise in treating a variety of conditions such as chronic pain, stress, and sleep disorders, by interacting with this system.
A series of observational clinical trials will be launched, initially focusing on veterans suffering from PTSD. These studies will lay the groundwork for future randomised controlled trials aimed at further exploring the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis. The research will also extend to women’s health issues, such as dysmenorrhea and menopause, as well as age-related conditions like Alzheimer’s.
The partnership seeks to pioneer a so-called citizen science model, where patients provide valuable feedback on how medicinal cannabis impacts their health and wellbeing.
Stuart Marsh, Chief Growth Officer of Cannim and a graduate of the University of Birmingham said: “We’re thrilled to be collaborating with PHTA and the University of Birmingham to further explore the transformative potential of medicinal cannabis.
“By combining our scientific expertise with the University’s cutting-edge research, we aim to improve patient outcomes and build a comprehensive understanding of how cannabis can best be used to treat a range of conditions.”
Professor Anup Mathew, Medical Director of the Lumir Clinic said: “Our goal is not only to provide evidence-based solutions for those in need but also to break down the barriers around the stigma of medicinal cannabis.
“We are committed to ensuring that both healthcare professionals and patients have access to the latest research and treatments.”
Professor Gino Martini, CEO of PHTA said: “This partnership highlights the unique role of the University of Birmingham and PHTA as leaders in medical research, bringing together academia and industry to address important gaps in knowledge about medicinal cannabis and its potential to improve lives.
“Cannim and PHTA are excited to push forward on this initiative, positioning Birmingham as a future research hub for medical cannabis and cannabinoid studies in the UK and beyond.”
