WHAT DO WE DO?
At the Raha Lab, we utilize in vitro (cell culture) and in vivo (animal models and human samples) models to understand the impact of cannabis on placental signaling and mammary gland function.
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
Life-long health starts at the moment of conception. Genetic and environmental factors come together to “program” a baby’s health from very early in development. Poor developmental programming can lead to increased risk of disease over the course of an individual’s life. Our team works to understand how these chemicals and drugs affect the placenta and ultimately the organs and tissues of the baby. We hope to shed light on diseases can be stopped before they start.
EXAMPLES OF ON-GOING PROJECTS
Investigating the potential neuroprotective and neuroprogressive effects of THC and CBD in a cellular model of stress/anxiety.
TECHNIQUES
The range of techniques applied in our laboratory spans molecular approaches (advanced proteomics, RT-PCR, determination of DNA methylation patterns) to cellular (immunological approaches to determining protein expression, enzyme assays, live-cell microscopy, electron microscopy) to physiological methods (evaluation of blood pressure in rodents, determination of glucose tolerance, histology, immunochemistry). Furthermore, we conduct human clinical studies and work with mice to obtain in vivo data.
To find more information about project specifics, contact:
Dr. Sandeep Raha (rahas@mcmaster.ca)