PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP | Monday, November 18

8:00 am Check In & Morning Refreshments

09:00 – 12:00 | Workshop A

Unleashing the Potential of CB1-Targeting Therapies for Obesity & Diabetes Treatment Options

  • George Kunos Senior Investigator, Laboratory of Physiologic Studies; Section of Neuroendocrinology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism - NIAAA

Synopsis

The growing prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes demands innovative therapeutic approaches. Harnessing the recent buzz of the GLP-1R agonist Ozempic, delve into the exciting world of CB1 receptor modulation to regulate appetite and body weight.

Join this workshop to explore the potential of CB1-targeting therapies for obesity and diabetes, understand their role in metabolic regulation, and examine the synergy with GLP-1R agonists.

Address critical questions, such as:

  • How do CB1 receptors influence appetite control and metabolic regulation?
  • How do peripherally restricted CB1 blockers overcome the neuropsychiatric effects of brain-penetrant CB1 inhibitors?
  • How does CB1R signaling modulate GLP-1 secretion and insulinotropic action in CB1R-deficient mice, and what are the benefits of combining CB1R inhibitors with GLP-1R agonists in obese models?
  • How can preclinical findings be translated to human trials to accelerate the development of new treatment options for obesity and diabetes, and what is the potential impact on glucose control, complication reduction, and lifestyle enhancement?

12:00 pm Lunch & Networking Break

13:00 – 16:00 | Workshop B

Navigating the Complex Regulatory Landscape for Cannabinoid Research: Governance, Policies, & Pathways

Synopsis

From managing chronic pain to treating epilepsy, cannabinoids offer promising avenues for medical breakthroughs. However, their complex legal and regulatory status has created a dynamic landscape that researchers, policymakers, and pharmaceutical companies must navigate.

Join this workshop to discuss the complex regulatory landscape for cannabinoid research, understand the key governance and policy challenges, and explore the pathways for successful drug development.

Address critical questions, such as:

  • What is the impact of FDA pathways on cannabinoid drug approval?
  • How can researchers and pharmaceutical companies manage regional restrictions, stigma, and differences between synthetic and phytocannabinoids?
  • What are the essential considerations for clinical trial design, safety, efficacy, GMP compliance, and product quality?
  • How can variations in global regulations be navigated and multinational trials harmonized to ensure consistent data quality and safety standards