cannabigerolic acid

Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) is a phytocannabinoid and the acidic precursor to several major cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. It is biosynthesized from olivetolic acid and geranyl diphosphate and serves as the direct precursor to tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCA) through enzymatic conversion. Upon decarboxylation by heat or light exposure, these acids convert into their neutral forms such as THC and CBD[1][3]. CBGA itself has demonstrated biological activity including anti-inflammatory effects and antimicrobial properties against bacteria and fungi[3]. Recent research indicates that CBGA can inhibit TRPM7 ion channels—implicated in kidney disease progression—and store-operated calcium entry via CRAC channels. These actions suggest potential therapeutic roles for CBGA in autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, certain cancers including glioblastoma multiforme[8], chronic pain conditions[8], diabetes management[8], epilepsy/seizure control[9], cardiac hypertrophy/arrhythmias/kidney disorders[6], ocular diseases via enhanced corneal penetration formulations[3], as well as antiviral activity against SARS-CoV‑2 by blocking viral entry into human cells through binding to the spike protein of the virus[5]. Unlike THC or its precursors it does not produce psychotropic effects.

Other names

CBGA(E)-3-(3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadienyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-6-pentylbenzoic acidBenzoic acid, 3-(3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadienyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-6-pentyl-, (E)-3-[(2E)-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dien-1-yl]-2,4-dihydroxy-6-pentylbenzoic acidCHEBI:67081