Improving cannabidiol treatments for autism spectrum disorder
Official title: Optimization of cannabidiol-based formulations in autism spectrum disorder
Funded at Western Washington University · NIH-11043199 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different mixes of CBD and natural compounds from cannabis can help improve brain function in kids and teens with autism, aiming to find safer and more effective treatments without the high from THC.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Western Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bellingham, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $396,988 |
| NIH project number | 1R15NS141197-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043199 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or are not within the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on optimizing formulations of cannabidiol (CBD) to treat autism spectrum disorder (ASD) without the psychoactive effects of Δ9-THC. The team will explore how different combinations of CBD and cannabis-derived terpenes can enhance brain signaling related to GABA, which is often disrupted in individuals with ASD. Using a mouse model, they will assess the effectiveness of these formulations through various scientific techniques, including electrophysiology and behavioral tests. The goal is to identify the best combinations that could lead to safer and more effective treatments for children and adolescents with ASD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder.
How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research into the use of cannabinoids for various neurological conditions, this specific approach focusing on non-Δ9-THC formulations in ASD is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Western Washington University
Bellingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaplan, Josh — Western Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kaplan, Josh
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.