Dose- and tissue-dependent effects of cannabidiol on antioxidant status in developing chicken embryos

This study investigated the dose- and tissue-dependent effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on the antioxidant status of developing chicken embryos, a key model for vertebrate development. Fertilized eggs were administered CBD (2, 10, or 20 mg/kg egg weight) on the sixth day of incubation. Tissues (brain, liver, heart, thigh muscle, intestine) were collected on day 13 and analyzed for glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA). The results demonstrated potent, tissue-specific effects. CBD exhibited its strongest antioxidant activity in the liver, where 10 mg/kg significantly increased GPx and SOD activity and reduced MDA by ~ 44%. In the brain, it enhanced antioxidant enzymes and decreased lipid peroxidation. Conversely, the high dose (20 mg/kg) increased oxidative stress in cardiac tissue, elevating MDA by 27%. Striated and smooth muscles showed more moderate responses. These findings highlight CBD's tissue-specific and dose-dependent antioxidant properties, underscoring its potential benefits in the liver and brain but cautioning against high doses due to cardiac risks. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms and long-term implications of CBD exposure during embryonic development.