Cannabis Use, Neurobiology, Psychology, and Treatment

1st Edition - June 2, 2023
Editors: Colin R Martin, Vinood B. Patel, Victor R Preedy
Language: English
Hardback ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 3 2 3 - 8 9 8 6 2 - 1
eBook ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 3 2 3 - 9 0 1 4 0 - 6

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Cannabis Use, Neurobiology, Psychology, and Treatment offers readers a comprehensive reference on neurological changes, both transient and long-term, and other factors surrounding the use of these compounds and extracts. With coverage of both natural and synthetic cannabinoids, this broad coverage allows readers to learn about both adverse and non-adverse effects, including reactivity to pain, changes in behavior, and neuroactivity. This volume provides a platform for research on the effects of these compounds in brain function and neurological dysfunction. Extracts from the Cannabis sativa plant contain scores of psychoactive compounds in addition to the principal agent tetrahydrocannabinol, many of which are neuroactive.

Cover image
Title page
Table of Contents
Copyright
Dedication
Contributors
Preface
Part I: Setting the scene and introductory chapters
Chapter 1: Metabolomics of the cannabis plant
Abstract
Introduction
Analytical tools and methods for metabolomics studies in cannabis
Understanding cannabis through metabolomics
The future of cannabis metabolomics
Concluding remarks
Applications to other areas
Key facts
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 2: Cannabis sativa roots: Chemical and pharmacological profile
Abstract
Introduction
Chemical aspects of Cannabis sativa roots
Toxicological aspects of Cannabis sativa roots
Pharmacological aspects of Cannabis sativa roots
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of marijuana roots
Summary points
References
Chapter 3: Cannabis-related compounds in beverages and food
Abstract
Introduction
Analytical methods for determination of cannabinoids in dietary products
Cannabinoid determination in hemp-derived ingredients
Cannabinoids monitoring in food and beverages containing hemp-derived ingredients
Cannabinoids content in cereals, cereal-derived, and bakery products
Cannabinoids content in products for infusion and animal-derived products
Cannabinoids content in alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages
Cannabinoids content in other dietary products
Conclusions
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 4: The impact of prenatal cannabis exposure: An overview
Abstract
Introduction
Current state of PCE research
Summary
Applications to other areas
Key facts of PCE
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 5: Cannabinoid genotoxicity and congenital anomalies: A convergent synthesis of European and USA data sets
Abstract
Introduction
Methodologies
Analyses
Consideration of analyses
Specific congenital anomalies of interest
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of cannabinoid teratogenesis
Summary points
References
Chapter 6: Cannabis genotoxicity and cancer incidence_ Highly concordant synthesis of European and USA datasets
Abstract
Introduction
Triple confluence of recent cannabis trends
Exponential cannabinoid genotoxicity dose-response curves
Modern epigenomic insights
Methodological considerations
Comparative analyses
Consideration of findings
Acute myeloid leukemia
Acute lymphoid leukemia
Biological mechanisms
Cannabinoid-induced chromosomal pathophysiology
Cannabinoid-induced disruption of mitochondria: Epigenome interactions
Cannabinoid-induced epigenomic disruption of cancer-related genes
Cannabinoid-induced disruption of chromatin looping
Exponentiation of cannabinoid-related genotoxicity
Qualitative causal inference
Quantitative causal inference
Generalizability
Strengths and limitations
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of cannabinoid cancerogenicity
Summary points
References
Chapter 7: Cannabis, cognitive impairment and car crash risk
Abstract
Introduction
Cannabis-induced impairments: Results from lab and simulation studies
Meta-analyses: Cannabis-induced cognitive changes and crash risks
Discussion
Summary
Applications to other areas
Key facts
Summary points
References
Part II: Cannabis usage
Chapter 8: Recreational cannabis use: French perspective of adverse effects
Abstract
Introduction
Addictovigilance in France
Rates of cannabis use in France
Adverse effects of recreational cannabis use in France
Perspectives
Conclusion
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of recreational cannabis use: French perspective of adverse effects
Summary points
References
Chapter 9: Acute and chronic impact of cannabis on human cognition
Abstract
Introduction
Mechanisms of cannabis-induced cognitive impairment
Methods for studying cognitive effects of cannabis in humans
Effects of cannabis and cannabinoids on human cognition
Factors influencing the cognitive effects of cannabis and cannabinoids
Application to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of testing cognitive functions
Summary points
References
Chapter 10: Polydrug users, use of cannabinoids and abuse potential: A focus on cannabidiol (CBD)
Abstract
Introduction
Abuse and dependence potential of CBD in animals
Abuse and dependence potential of CBD in humans
Evidence of CBD abuse in polydrug users
Misuse of CBD products
Use of CBD in treatment of substance-use disorders
Conclusions
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of CBD abuse potential
Summary points
References
Chapter 11: Cannabis stigmas: A narrative of features
Abstract
Introduction
Main text
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of cannabis stigmas
Summary points
References
Chapter 12: Alterations of THC and CBD ratios and impact on cognition
Abstract
Introduction
Effect of different THC:CBD ratio on human cognition
Effect of different THC:CBD ratio on cognition: Preclinical evidence
Conclusions
Applications to other areas
Key facts of THC
Key facts of CBD
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 13: When cannabis is used for medicinal purposes: A focus on back pain
Abstract
Introduction
Types of back pain
Multifactorial back pain
Opiate use for back pain
Pain management in the United States
Contrast with global pain management
Legality of cannabis worldwide
Acceptance of cannabis for medicinal purposes
Cannabis mechanism of action
Review of evidence
Cannabis reduces opiate use
Adverse events
Conclusion
Reducing opiate use
Forthcoming research
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of opioid addiction
Summary points
References
Part III: Pharmacological and physiological aspects
Chapter 14: Cannabis, cannabinoids, and receptor responses
Abstract
Introduction
C5 cannabinoids
C3 cannabinoids
Applications to other areas: Deconvoluting the chemical complexity of medical cannabis
Key facts of cannabinoid receptors
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 15: Cannabidiol (CBD): Abuse and physical dependence potential
Abstract
Introduction
Preclinical abuse potential evaluation of CBD
Clinical abuse potential evaluation of CBD
Physical dependence potential of CBD
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of CBD
Summary points
References
Chapter 16: 4,5-Dihydro-1H-pyrazole/3,4-Diarylpyrazoline class of cannabinoid-1 (CB1R) receptor antagonists and their potential in medicinal applications
Abstract
Introduction
Targeting the ECS CB1R with brain-penetrant CB1 blockers
Peripherally-restricted (PR) CB1R blockers
Designing PR CB1 blockers
Chemistry of 4,5-1H-dihydropyrazole (3,4-diarylpyrazoline) scaffold-based CB1 antagonists
General synthesis schemes for dihydropyrazoline-type compounds
Computational models
Application to other areas and summary
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of 3,4-diarylpyrazolines CB1R modulators
Summary points
References
Part IV: Neurobiology of cannabis
Chapter 17: Neurobiology of the endocannabinoid system and relevance to cannabis use
Abstract
Introduction
Endocannabinoid system
Physiological outcomes of endocannabinoids
Evidence of endocannabinoids in neuropathology (Fig. 1B)
Conclusion
Summary points
References
Chapter 18: Neurobiology of the kynurenine pathway and cannabis misuse: A new narrative
Abstract
Introduction
The kynurenine pathway
Targets of kynurenine pathway metabolites
Interaction of cannabinoids with the kynurenine pathway targets
Interaction of kynurenine pathway metabolites with CBR
Animal studies on the effects of cannabinoids on the kynurenine pathway
Humans
Effects of modulation of the kynurenine pathway on cannabis misuse
Applications to other areas
Key facts of the kynurenine pathway
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 19: Central nervous system cancers and use of cannabis and related products: An updated narrative
Abstract
Overview
Global incidence, prevalence, and survival of gliomas
Classification of gliomas
Glioma risks factors
Treatment and management of gliomas
Cannabinoids and gliomas
Antitumoral action of cannabinoids in glioma cells
Potential therapeutic applications of cannabinoids in gliomas
Clinical experience of cannabis in gliomas
Side effect management
Clinical trials
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of central nervous system cancers and use of cannabis and related products
Summary points
References
Chapter 20: The relationship between glutamate and resting-state connectivity in chronic cannabis users
Abstract
Introduction
Glutamate and addiction
Glutamate and cannabis
Resting-state connectivity and cannabis
Glutamate and resting-state connectivity
Cannabis, glutamate, and resting-state connectivity
Implications
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of resting-state functional connectivity
Key facts of glutamate
Summary points
References
Chapter 21: Brain metabolic responses to cannabis use in people with multiple sclerosis: Insights from [18F]-FDG positron emission tomography and functional MRI
Abstract
Cannabis
Multiple sclerosis
In vivo neuroimaging
PET, cannabis, and MS
fMRI, cannabis, and MS
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of neuroimaging
Summary points
References
Chapter 22: Genetic variation and acute responses to cannabis
Abstract
Conflict of interest statement
Introduction
Genetics of the endocannabinoid system
Behavioral pharmacology of cannabinoids
Experimental measures
Genetic polymorphisms involved in acute responses to cannabis
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of candidate gene association studies
Summary points
References
Chapter 23: Cell signaling of the CB1 cannabinoid receptor via β-arrestins, cannabinoid receptor interacting protein (CRIP1a) and other regulatory proteins
Abstract
Introduction
Proteins that regulate signal transduction pathways
Cannabinoid receptor signaling through β-arrestins
Cannabinoid receptor interacting protein 1a (CRIP1a) and CB1Rs
Proteins that regulate CB1R trafficking
Wntless (WLS/GPR177) as CB1R- and CB2R-interacting proteins
G protein receptor-associated sorting protein 1 (GASP1) and CB1R lysosomal degradation
Conclusions
Key facts
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 24: Impact of cannabis on memory: From in utero to adulthood
Abstract
Introduction
Prenatal cannabis exposure and memory
Adolescent cannabis use and memory
Adult cannabis use and memory
Effects of cannabis on memory across the lifespan
Polydrug use
Compensatory brain function
Methodological limitations
Concluding remarks
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of the impact of cannabis on memory: From in utero to adulthood
Summary points
References
Chapter 25: Age-related considerations in the use of cannabinoids: Focus on drug interactions, physiology, and drug effects
Abstract
Introduction
Uses of cannabis
Geriatric special considerations
Age-related CB1 receptor expression variation
Age-related CB1 receptor function variation
Age-related cannabinoids behavioral effect variation
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of drug-drug interaction
Key facts of cannabinoid receptor function and expression
Summary points
References
Further reading
Chapter 26: Cannabis, binge drinking, and memory in adolescents and young adults
Abstract
Introduction
Effects of cannabis on memory (in healthy adolescents with recreational use)
Effects of binge drinking on memory
Effects of polydrug use (cannabis + alcohol BD) on memory
Conclusions
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of cannabis, binge drinking, and memory in adolescents and young adults
Summary points
References
Part V: Neurobiology of cannabinoids
Chapter 27: The role of ΔFosB in the plasticity of the cannabinoid system
Abstract
Introduction
Cannabis and cannabinoids
Endocannabinoids
ΔFOSB
Interaction
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Key facts
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 28: Functional profile of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists: Exploring cannabinoid and noncannabinoid targets
Abstract
Introduction
Molecular targets of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs)
Ion channels
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of functional profile of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists: Exploring cannabinoid and noncannabinoid targets
Summary points
References
Chapter 29: Linking the G-protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) to the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2): A new narrative
Abstract
Introduction
The endocannabinoid system
Endocannabinoids (ECs) biosynthesis and metabolism
Cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2
Linking GPR55
Considerations on GPR55 as a potential therapeutic target: Pathophysiologic and toxicologic issues
Brain reward system and destructive behaviors
Conclusions
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of GPR55
Summary points
References
Chapter 30: Proteomic analysis of cannabinoids in human oligodendrocyte cells
Abstract
Oligodendrocytes
Proteomics
Endocannabinoids
CB1 and CB2 agonists
CB1 and CB2 antagonists
Phytocannabinoids
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Key fact
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 31: Cannabinoids and endocannabinoid signaling at the basal forebrain cholinergic system
Abstract
Introduction: The basal forebrain cholinergic system
Degeneration of the basal forebrain cholinergic system: Role in AD
The endocannabinoid system in the basal forebrain cholinergic pathways
Interaction between cholinergic and endocannabinoid systems
Cholinergic-cannabinoid crosstalk in animal models of genetic AD
Cholinergic-cannabinoid crosstalk in the 3xTg-AD mice model of genetic AD
Lesion of the nucleus basalis magnocellularis: Animal models of dementia associated to cholinergic impairment
Modulation of the eCB system in the 192IgG-saporin cholinergic lesion model
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of the endocannabinoid system in cognitive impairment
Summary points
References
Chapter 32: Cannabidiol (the major nonpsychotropic cannabinoid in the cannabis plant) and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the CNS
Abstract
Introduction
PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
PI3K/AKT signaling pathway is involved in CBD-induced neuroprotection: Evidence from animal models
Use of in vitro models to elucidate the involvement of PI3k/AKT signaling pathway in the neuroprotective effects of Cannabidiol
Concluding remarks
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts
Summary points
References
Chapter 33: Effects of cannabidiol and other phytocannabinoids on voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels
Abstract
Introduction
Effects of cannabidiol on voltage-gated sodium channels
Effects of cannabidiol on voltage-gated calcium channels
Effects of cannabidiol on voltage-gated potassium channels
Effects of cannabidiol on ligand-gated ion channels
Effects of cannabidiol on transient receptor potential channels
Conclusion
Summary points
References
Chapter 34: Cannabis, neurodevelopment, and the “two-hit” hypothesis
Abstract
Introduction
Adolescence is a sensitive developmental window
The endocannabinoid system and the developing brain
Mechanisms of action of cannabis
Differential effects of THC and CBD
Evidence for cannabis use and risk for psychosis
The “two-hit” hypothesis
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of cannabis and the “two-hit” hypothesis
Summary points
References
Part VI: New and synthetic cannabinoids
Chapter 35: Impact of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and synthetic “spice” cannabinoids on nicotine use and abuse
Abstract
Tobacco and nicotine
Cannabis, THC, and spice
Brain mechanisms underlying drug use
Impact of cannabinoids on cognition, behavior, and nicotine use
Nicotine and cannabis cessation
Applications to other areas
Key facts
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 36: Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists compared to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol: Neurological effects and beyond
Abstract
Introduction
Central nervous system effects
Cardiovascular effects
Respiratory depression
Renal effects
Cannabinoids in cancer treatment
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of THC compared to synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists
Summary points
References
Further reading
Part VII: Biomarkers, analysis and screening
Chapter 37: The DSM: 5 Criteria of cannabis use disorder: Methods and applications
Abstract
Introduction
Inception of new DSM-5 criteria for cannabis use disorder
DSM-5 workgroup on devising criteria for cannabis use disorder
Concordance/compatibility of DSM-5 with DSM-IV and other classificatory systems
Prevalence of various DSM-5 criteria for cannabis use disorder
Assessment instruments based on DSM-5 for cannabis use disorder
Application of current criteria
Cannabis withdrawal syndrome: Insights and controversies
Limitations in the current DSM-5 classification in the context of cannabis use disorder
Future research
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of DSM-5
Summary points
References
Chapter 38: Cannabis and clinical high risk for psychosis: Monitoring and smartphones
Abstract
Introduction and orientation to the chapter
General population studies on cannabis use and its impact on psychosis
Clinical high risk for developing psychosis
Cannabis use monitoring
Cannabis use tracking and mobile applications
Summary
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of cannabis use for those at CHR
Summary points
References
Part VIII: Impact on non-neurological systems
Chapter 39: The impact of cannabis and cannabinoids on the skin
Abstract
Introduction
Cannabinoid receptors
Non-cannabinoid receptors
Physiologic roles of cannabinoids in the skin
Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC)
Melanoma
Psoriasis
Acne vulgaris and seborrhea
Alopecia and hair growth disorders
Pruritus
Atopic dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis
Connective tissue disorders
Pain
Wound healing and skin aging
Cutaneous adverse effects
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of inflammation in the skin
Summary points
References
Chapter 40: Cannabis consumption in reproductive function and teratogenicity
Abstract
Cannabis in reproduction and fertility
Cannabis action on ontogeny
Conclusion
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of cannabis in reproductive function
Summary points
References
Chapter 41: Phytocannabinoids have cytotoxic, antiproliferative, and antimigratory activities on cancer cells and cancer stem cells
Abstract
Introduction
Cancer stem cells
Glioma and glioblastoma
Cancer and the endocannabinoid system
Anticancer activities of cannabis compounds
The entourage effect and synergies between cannabis compounds
Mechanism of anticancer activity of phytocannabinoids
Effect of phytocannabinoids on normal tissue
Summary
Application to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms (alphabetical)
Key facts about secondary metabolites
Summary points
References
Part IX: Treatments and strategies
Chapter 42: Motivational interviewing for cannabis use disorders: A narrative review from research to practice
Abstract
Introduction: Motivational interviewing: Definition, concepts, and key components
The spirit
The techniques
Section 1: Evidence from addictions field beyond cannabis use disorders
Section 2: Reviewing evidence of motivational interviewing for CUD
Section 3: MI for CUD in the real world: Characteristics and case example
Applications to other areas
Key facts
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 43: An overview of current pharmacologic interventions for management of cannabis withdrawal syndrome and the evidence for their use
Abstract
Introduction
CWS: An overview
CWS treatments
Future directions
Conclusions
Applications to other areas
Key facts of GABA
Mini-dictionary of terms
Summary points
References
Chapter 44: Managing cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in pediatrics: A new narrative review
Abstract
Introduction
Background and epidemiology
Diagnosis
Pathophysiology
Antiemetic pharmacology review
Effective, ineffective, and supportive medication therapies in CHS
Safety considerations
Disease states
Mini-dictionary
Key facts
Summary points
References
Chapter 45: Gabapentinoids for the treatment of cannabis use disorder: A focus on human laboratory research
Abstract
Introduction
Gabapentinoid pharmacology
Preclinical evidence supporting gabapentinoids as CUD medications
Clinical evaluation of gabapentinoids as CUD medications
Separate and combined effects of gabapentin and THC in cannabis users discriminating THC: Drug discrimination rationale and design
Separate and combined effects of gabapentin and THC in cannabis users discriminating THC: Methods
Separate and combined effects of gabapentin and THC in cannabis users discriminating THC: Results and discussion
Separate and combined effects of gabapentin and THC in cannabis users discriminating THC: Summary and conclusions
Influence of pregabalin maintenance on cannabis reinforcement and related behaviors: Self-administration rationale and design
Influence of pregabalin maintenance on cannabis reinforcement and related behaviors: Methods
Influence of pregabalin maintenance on cannabis reinforcement and related behaviors: Results and discussion
Influence of pregabalin maintenance on cannabis reinforcement and related behaviors: Summary and conclusion
Final conclusions
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of Gabapentinoids for the treatment of cannabis use disorder: A focus on human laboratory research
Summary points
References
Chapter 46: Treating psychosis in users of synthetic cannabinoids
Abstract
Introduction
Psychic disorders resulting from synthetic cannabinoid use
Psychosis duration
Applications to other areas
Mini-dictionary of terms
Key facts of acute psychosis
Summary points
References
Further reading
Part X: Resources
Chapter 47: Recommended resources for studying and investigating cannabis use, neurobiology, psychology, and treatments
Abstract
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Resources
Other resources
Summary points
References
Index

Colin R Martin

Colin R. Martin RN, BSc, MSc, PhD, MBA, YCAP, FHEA, C.Psychol, AFBPsS, C.Sci is Professor of Clinical Psychobiology and Applied Psychoneuroimmunology and Clinical Director of the Institute of Health and Wellbeing at the University of Suffolk, UK. He is a Chartered Health Psychologist and a Chartered Scientist. He also trained in analytical biochemistry, this aspect reflecting the psychobiological focus of much of his research within mental health. He has published or has in press well over 300 research papers and book chapters. He is a keen book author and editor having written and/or edited more than 50 books. These outputs include the prophetic insight into the treatment of neurological disease, Handbook of Behavior, Food and Nutrition (2011), Nanomedicine and the Nervous System (2012), Oxidative Stress and Dietary Antioxidants in Neurological Disease (2020), Zika Virus Impact, Diagnosis, Control and Models (2021), Factors Affecting Neurodevelopment: Genetics, Neurology, Behavior and Diet (2021), Diagnosis and Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury (2022), The Neurobiology, Physiology, and Psychology of Pain (2022) and The Handbook of Lifespan Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Childhood, Adolescence, Pregnancy, Adulthood, and Aging (2023). Professor Martin is particularly interested in all aspects of the relationship between underlying physiological substrates and behavior, particularly in how these relationships manifest in both acute and chronic psychiatric disorder. He has published original research germane to significant mental health disorders including the areas of schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, alcohol and drug dependency, high secure forensic mental health and personality disorder. He has a keen interest in the impact of postviral illness and is actively involved in clinical research post-Covid pandemic and in particular, the impact of Long Covid on psychological, neurological, physiological and social functioning. He is involved in collaborative International research with many European and Non-European countries.

Affiliations and expertise

Professor of Clinical Psychobiology and Applied Psychoneuroimmunology and Clinical Director: Institute for Health and Wellbeing, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, UK

Vinood B. Patel

Dr. Patel is a Reader at the University of Westminster. After completing his PhD at King’s College London, he continued his research experience by undertaking his post-doctoral studies in the laboratory of Professor Cunningham in the Department of Biochemistry at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine, (Winston-Salem, NC, USA). This extensive project involved investigating mechanisms of hepatic mitochondrial ribosome dysfunction in alcoholic liver disease (ALD) using biophysical and proteomic techniques. These studies have led to new avenues in determining the pathology of ALD. His teaching areas at both post-graduate and undergraduate levels include clinical biochemistry, investigative pathology and laboratory investigation.

Affiliations and expertise

Reader, University of Westminster, London, UK

Victor R Preedy

Victor R. Preedy BSc, PhD, DSc, FRSB, FRSPH, FRSC, FRCPath graduated with an Honours Degree in Biology and Physiology with Pharmacology. After gaining his University of London PhD, he received his Membership of the Royal College of Pathologists. He was later awarded his second doctorate (DSc), for his contribution to protein metabolism in health and disease. He is Professor of Clinical Biochemistry (Hon) at King’s College Hospital and Emeritus Professor of Nutritional Biochemistry at King’s College London. He has Honorary Professorships at the University of Hull, and the University of Suffolk. Professor Preedy was the Founding Director and then long-term Director of the Genomics Centre at King’s College London from 2006 to 2020. Professor Preedy has been awarded fellowships of the Royal Society of Biology, the Royal College of Pathologists, the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health, the Royal Institute of Public Health, the Royal Society for Public Health, the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Royal Society of Medicine. He carried out research when attached to the National Heart Hospital (part of Imperial College London), The School of Pharmacy (now part of University College London) and the MRC Centre at Northwick Park Hospital. He has collaborated with international research groups in Finland, Japan, Australia, USA, and Germany. To his credit, Professor Preedy has published over 750 articles, which includes peer-reviewed manuscripts based on original research, abstracts and symposium presentations, reviews and edited books.

Affiliations and expertise

Professor, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, King’s College Hospital, London, UK; Emeritus Professor, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, UK Visiting Professor, University of Hull, UK