Investigating how cannabis affects inflammation and insulin sensitivity
Official title: Exploring the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis and their relevance to insulin sensitivity
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-10619625 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using cannabis might help with inflammation and insulin sensitivity, which could be important for people with type 2 diabetes, by checking how different compounds in cannabis affect metabolism and body weight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2019 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $545,270 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA050515-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10619625 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults who use cannabis and are at risk for or currently managing type 2 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or those without metabolic health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between cannabis use and its potential anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in relation to insulin sensitivity and type 2 diabetes. The study examines how different cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, may influence inflammatory markers and metabolic processes. By analyzing the effects of cannabis on body weight and caloric intake, the research aims to clarify the complex interactions between cannabis use and metabolic health. Participants may be involved in assessments that measure their insulin sensitivity and inflammatory responses to cannabis consumption.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights on how cannabis might be used to improve metabolic health and manage conditions like type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: While there is some preliminary evidence suggesting cannabis may have beneficial effects on metabolic health, this specific approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bryan, Angela — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Bryan, Angela
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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.