Source: KANSAS STATE UNIV submitted to NRP
ESTABLISHING THE PHARMACOKINETICS AND TISSUE RESIDUE DEPLETION OF CANNABINOIDS IN LIVESTOCK AFTER EXPOSURE TO INDUSTRIAL HEMP
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
ACTIVE
Funding Source
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
1021336
Grant No.
2020-67030-31479
Cumulative Award Amt.
$200,000.00
Proposal No.
2019-04991
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Jun 1, 2020
Project End Date
May 30, 2025
Grant Year
2020
Program Code
[A1801]- Exploratory: Exploratory Research
Recipient Organization
KANSAS STATE UNIV
(N/A)
MANHATTAN,KS 66506
Performing Department
Anatomy & Physiology
Non Technical Summary
This proposal directly addresses the priorities of the Exploratory Research Program by providing tools necessary to allow the utilization of industrial hemp (IH) in livestock production systems. The 2014 Farm Bill legalized the cultivation and production of IH (Cannabis sativa containing < 0.3%Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)). The removal of IH as DEA Schedule I drug in the 2018 Farm Bill has generated interest in hemp cultivation as a novel agricultural commodity. Hemp plants, and their by-products, are considered to have nutritional and potentially therapeutic value when used as a feed source in livestock. However, the presence of bioactive cannabinoid compounds in hemp may result in drug residues that could pose a risk to the consumer. The absence of published data describing the pharmacokinetics, tissue and milk residue depletion of cannabinoids in cattle is a significant impediment to future animal health and production research with IH. This proposal will directly address this deficiently by (1) Developing novel analytical tools to quantify cannabinoid concentrations in hemp plant materials and in the blood, milk and edible tissues of cattle exposed to hemp and (2) Characterizing the plasma pharmacokinetics (PK) and milk and edible tissue residue depletion profiles of cannabinoids and their metabolites in cattle after oral exposure to IH. Successful completion of these specific aims will deliver new knowledge that will fulfill the mandate of the Farm Bill. The outcomes of this project are urgently needed in order for the value of hemp products in U.S. livestock production systems to be investigated.
Animal Health Component
50%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
50%
Applied
50%
Developmental
(N/A)
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
30233301180100%
Knowledge Area
302 - Nutrient Utilization in Animals;

Subject Of Investigation
3330 - Other beef cattle products;

Field Of Science
1180 - Pharmacology;
Goals / Objectives
This proposal will directly address the priorities of the Exploratory Research Program Area by delivering transformative tools needed to generate new knowledge that will facilitate the utilization of industrial hemp (IH) in livestock production systems. The objective of this proposal is to address these knowledge gaps through two independent Specific Aims:Specific Aim 1: To develop and validate sensitive, accurate and robust analytical methods to quantify cannabinoid concentrations in hemp plants, hemp extracts, hemp meal, and in the blood, milk and edible tissues of animals exposed to hemp. Development and validation of a liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) will allow for precise measures of cannabinoids and their metabolites in hemp, hemp plant products, and the plasma, milk, and edible tissues of animals.Specific Aim 2: To characterize the plasma pharmacokinetics (PK) and milk and edible tissue residue depletion kinetics of cannabinoids and their metabolites in cattle after oral administration.
Project Methods
Industrial hemp (IH) will be grown and cultivated at the Kansas State University John C. Pair Horticultural Center. The center is licensed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture to grow industrial hemp. Clonally propagated cultivars of IH that are known to produce 7% - 20% (dry weight) CBD, but <0.3% THC will be used for these studies. Plants will be potted into containers filled with an amended substrate containing industry standard controlled release nutrient package. When mature, plants will be harvested by hand and processed for experimental studies.Specific Aim 1 will develop and validate sensitive, accurate, and robust analytical methods to quantify cannabinoid concentrations in hemp plants, hemp extracts, hemp meal, and in the blood, milk and edible tissue of animals exposed to hemp.All reagents used will be LC-MS grade. Cannabinoids standards will be purchased as solutions in methanol from Cerilliant: cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), cannabigerol (CBG), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), 1.0 mg/mL, (-)-D9-tetrahydrocannabinol (D9-THC), (-)-D8-Tetrahydro cannabinol (D8-THC), cannabichromene (CBC), D9-Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (THCA-A), cannabichromenic Acid (CBCA), (±)-11-nor-9-Carboxy-Δ9-THC, (+)-11-nor-9-Carboxy-D9- THC glucuronide. Analysis will be performed on a Waters® Xevo TQ-S Acquity H ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) (Waters Corporation; Milford, MA). QueChERS will be used to perform the extraction of dry plant material or commercial feed samples.Specific Aim 2 will characterize the plasma pharmacokinetics (PK); and milk and edible tissue depletion kinetics of cannabinoids and their metabolites in cattle after oral administration. Specific Aim 2a. Characterize the plasma pharmacokinetics (PK) of cannabinoids and their metabolites in cattle after single and multiple oral administrations.Study Animals: 16 Holstein steers, 4 to 6 months of age will be enrolled onto the study.Treatments: Whole hemp plants will be fed to study cattle by grinding plant material to make a homogenous blend of plant parts. Cannabinoid concentrations of the plants will be determined prior to feeding to animals.Study Procedures: Plasma cannabinoid concentrations are the primary outcome to be assessed in Specific Aim 2.a. Plasma will be obtained from whole blood taken by jugular venipuncture. The blood samples will be directly placed into blood tubes containing lithium heparin. Blood samples will be placed on ice and transferred to the lab. Once at the lab, the samples will be centrifuged at 3,500g for 10 minutes. The plasma will be pipetted off and divided into 2 cryovials and then frozen at -80°C for further analysis.Sample Analysis: Plasma samples collected from study calves will be analyzed for cannabinoid and cannabinoid metabolites using the liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) methods developed in Specific Aim 1.Data Analysis: Cannabinoid concentration by time data will be analyzed using a commercially available computer software program (Phoenix 8.1, Certara USA, Inc., Princeton, NJ, USA).Expected Outcomes: Describing the pharmacokinetics of cannabinoids will allow for determining the most optimal time points for sampling tissue and milk harvested from animals administered oral hemp and/or hemp plant by-products.Specific Aim 2b: Characterize the edible tissue concentrations of cannabinoids and their metabolites in cattle after oral administration. Study Animals: 20 Holstein steers 5 to 7 months of age will be enrolled onto the study.Treatments: Whole hemp plants will be fed to study cattle by grinding plant material to make a homogenous blend of plant parts.Study Procedures: The study will be conducted using the methods outlined in the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Guidance for Industry (GFI) #207 (Studies to Evaluate the Metabolism and Residue Kinetics of Veterinary Drugs In Food Producing Animals: Marker Residue Depletion Studies to Establish Product Withdrawal Periods). A total of 4 steers will be sampled at each of 5 time points following administration of hemp. Tissues to be collected at each predetermined time point include muscle, liver, kidney, and fat per U.S. FDA Guidance for Industry #207.Sample Analysis: Tissue samples will be analyzed for cannabinoid and cannabinoid metabolites using the liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) methods developed in Specific Aim 1.Data Analysis: Tissue cannabinoid concentrations data will be analyzed by using the tolerance limit method published by the US FDA to estimate a meat withhold time.Expect Outcomes: Data describing the tissue depletion profile will be used to develop withhold period recommendations in cattle treated with oral hemp and/or hemp plant by-products.Specific Aim 2c. Characterize the milk concentrations and depletion of cannabinoids and their metabolites from dairy cattle after oral administration. Study Animals: 20 Holstein dairy cows will be enrolled onto the study. The cows selected for enrolment will be of various lactation numbers (primiparous and multiparous), at various stages of lactation, and different production levels to meet the guidelines set forth by the US FDA Guidance for Industry "General Principles for Evaluating the Human Food Safety of New Animal Drugs Used in Food-Producing Animals".Treatments: Whole hemp plants will be fed to study cattle by grinding plant material to make a homogenous blend of plant parts. Cannabinoid concentrations of the plants will be determined prior to feeding to animals. Cattle will be administered cannabinoids at 2.5 mg/kg orally via oral gavage every 24 hours for 5 treatments.Study Procedures: The study will be conducted using the methods outlined in the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Guidance for Industry (GFI) #207. For milk sampling, cows will be entirely milked out into individual collection pails. The weight of milk harvested at each milking will be recorded. A composite sample representing all four-quarters will be taken from the pail. Plasma will be obtained from whole blood taken by jugular venipuncture at each milking to allow calculate the extraction of cannabinoids into milk.Sample Analysis: Milk and plasma samples will be analyzed for cannabinoid and cannabinoid metabolites using the liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) methods developed in Specific Aim 1.Data Analysis: Milk cannabinoid concentrations data will be analyzed using the tolerance limit method recommended by US FDA to estimate a milk discard time.Expected Outcome: Data describing the milk depletion profile will be used to develop withhold period recommendations in cattle treated with oral hemp and/or hemp plant by-products.

Progress 06/01/20 to 05/30/25

Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audience represents several constituencies. Foremost, our work is designed to be applicable to veterinary professionals and animal scientists. The overall goal of this work is to lower the barriers for research of industrial hemp and cannabinoids in cattle. Animal scientists in industry and academia are targeted becausethe results of our work will facilitate the study of industrial hemp as a cattle feed. Our work is a key piece needed for the approval of industrial hemp plant by-products as animal feeds and providing researchers the opportunity to investigate the effects of cannabinoids in cattle. To best communicate the value of the research to a broad audience, our group will participate in national and regional conference proceedings and publication of findings in peer-reviewed journals. In the past reporting period, our group has communicated preliminary data to other scientists and students via presentations at national conferences, publications, and news releases. Changes/Problems:There were challengesin validation of the method for detection of cannabinoids in adipose tissue that delayed finalization of that data. We experienced extensive delays in obtaining a Food Use Authorization (FUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to complete the milk residue components in lactating dairy cows and finally received a letter declining authorization last fall. These data are necessary so that the animals enrolled in the study can by marketed for slaughter at the end of their productive lifespan. There was insufficient time following receipt of the FDA letter to allow for resubmission of a FUA request. Given these regulatory restrictions, we were unable to deliver the milk residue component of the proposed study. Due to issues with analytical equipment and personnel, a liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy method for cannabinoid detection in cow milk had not yet been completed. Although blank milk samples were collected in anticipation of a new collaboration to enable this development, further equipment malfunctions have precluded progress in that area. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Training Studies evaluating the safety and applications of industrial hemp in cattle have been a primary component of Bailey Fritz's PhD program. These studies have enhanced Bailey's experience in experimental design and execution and knowledge of the field of pharmacology. Studies under this grant will comprise approximately 4chapters of her doctoral dissertation. Bailey Fritz is now a candidate for a doctorate in physiology with an emphasis in pharmacology and is scheduled to defend this August. Bailey's experience with industrial hemp in cattle enabled her to submit a successful intramural grant to study the plasma pharmacokinetics of cannabinoids in goats following industrial hemp administration. That study served as a capstone experience for Bailey. Professional Development The studies funded by this grant have provided Bailey Fritz the opportunity to present the findings of multiple projects at regional and national conferences, sharing this work with university and veterinary communities. Awards Bailey Fritz, working with Eduarda Bortoluzzi,was awarded a Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine Mentored Clinical, Applied or Translational Research Intramural Grant. The work Bailey conducted in relation to industrial hemp in cattle partially contributed to her success with her application. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been shared with scientists atmultiple college-level seminars and veterinary pharmacologists at the American Academy of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics 23rd Biennial Symposium. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The final tissues to determine a tissue residue depletion and withdrawal interval have been analyzed. The analytical method can determine the concentrations of 15 cannabinoids in hemp. The assay has a lower limit of quantification of 1.25 ng/g for most cannabinoids. The tissue data has been evaluated using the FDA withdrawal calculator in R. The longest tissue withdrawal was for cannabinol (CBD) in adipose tissue. The estimated withdrawal time was 154 days. This manuscript draft is nearly complete and will be submitted to Scientific Reports. Plasma samples have been analyzed for two pilot studies: (1) determining the impacts of industrial hemp and transportation on markers of stress and inflammation in cattle and (2)determining the impact of industrial hemp on chlortetracycline (CTC) absorption in cattle and clearance of Anaplasma marginale infection. All data (plasma cannabinoid, behavior, stress and inflammatory markers)from the first study havebeen completely analyzed and a final manuscript draft is nearly complete; it will be submitted to Translational Animal Science. Our results revealed decreased weight loss following transport and reduction in prostaglandin E2 metabolite concentrations in cattle administered hemp. Spontaneous clearance of control animals from the second study precluded investigation of the initial study aims. Thus, we have chosen to present the data as a short communication (Journal of Animal Science) on the plasma cannabinoid profiles during and after long-term industrial hemp administration. Our results have showed low, but detectable levels of some cannabinoids for multiple weeks following final hemp exposure.

Publications

  • Type: Other Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2025 Citation: Fritz BR, Kleinhenz MD, Magnin G, Griffin J, Weeder MM, Curtis AK, Martin MS, Leslie AA, Kleinhenz KE, Johnson BT, Fritz SA, Montgomery SR, Tkachenko A, Coetzee JF. Tissue residue depletion of cannabinoids in cattle fed industrial hemp. [In preparation to Scientific Reports, summer 2025]
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2024 Citation: Fritz BR. Tissue residue depletion of cannabinoids in cattle fed industrial hemp. Presentation: Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine Department of Anatomy and Physiology Fall 2024 Seminar series, 10 September 2024.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2025 Citation: Fritz BR. Pilot study: effects of industrial hemp and transport on measures of stress and inflammation in cattle Presentation: Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine Department of Anatomy and Physiology Spring 2025 Seminar series, 22 April 2025.
  • Type: Other Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2025 Citation: Pilot study to investigate the impacts of cannabinoids from industrial hemp and repeated transportation events on cattle health and immune status. BR Fritz, MD Kleinhenz, G Magnin, J Griffin, M Weeder, A Leslie, AK Curtis, and JF Coetzee. [In preparation to Translational Animal Science, summer 2025]
  • Type: Other Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2025 Citation: Fritz BR, Kleinhenz MD, Griffin J, Weeder MM, Leslie AA, Curtis AK, Magnin G, Ferm J, Ganta RR, Coetzee JF. Short communication: plasma cannabinoid concentrations during long-term industrial hemp administration in cattle. [In preparation to Journal of Animal Science, summer 2025]
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2025 Citation: Fritz BR. Tissue residue depletion of cannabinoids in cattle fed industrial hemp. Presentation, abstract, and poster: American Academy of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics 23rd Biennial Symposium. 19 May 2025.


Progress 06/01/23 to 05/31/24

Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audience represents several constituencies. Foremost, our work is designed to be applicable to veterinary professionals and animal scientists. The overall goal of this work is to lower the barriers for research of industrial hemp and cannabinoids in cattle. Animal scientists in industry and academia are targeted because as the results of our work will facilitate the study of industrial hemp as a cattle feed. Our work is a key piece needed for the approval of industrial hemp plant by-products as animal feeds and providing researchers the opportunity to investigate the effects of cannabinoids in cattle. To best communicate the value of the research to a broad audience, our group will participate in national and regional conference proceedings and publication of findings in peer-reviewed journals. In the past reporting period, our group has communicated preliminary data to other scientists and students via presentations at national conferences, publications, and news releases. Changes/Problems:Aside from delays in receiving regulatory approval from FDA to conduct the milk residue study in cows, no other problems have occured. The delay if receiving a food use authorization from FDA has no impact on the conduct of the study, aside from delaying the animal phase. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Training Studies evaluating the safety and applications of industrial hemp in cattle have been a primary component of Bailey Fritz's PhD program. These studies have enhanced Bailey's experience in experimental design and execution and knowledge of the field of pharmacology. Studies under this grant will comprise approximately 5 chapters of her doctoral dissertation. Bailey Fritz is scheduled to take her preliminary examinations this August for admittance by the Kansas State University Graduate School to candidacy for a doctorate in physiology with an emphasis in pharmacology. Professional development The studies funded by this grant have provided Bailey Fritz the opportunity to present the findings of multiple projects at regional and national conferences, sharing this work with university and veterinary communities. Awards Bailey Fritz was awarded a Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine Combined Degree Scholarship. The work she conducted in relation to industrial hemp partially contributed to her earning this award. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been shared among hemp researchers and veterinarians at the American Association of Bovine Practitioners Annual Meeting, the 2022 Hemp Feed Workshop, the National Veterinary Scholars Symposium, and multiple university-level research forums. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?During the next reporting period, our group plans to complete the final aim of determining the cannabinoid concentrations in milk harvested from dairy cattle administered industrial hemp. This study was not completed in 2023 due to delays in obtaining a Food Use Authorization from the FDA.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The final tissues to determine a tissue residue depletion and withdrawal interval have been analyzed. The analytical method can determine the concentrations of 15 cannabinoids in hemp. The assay has a lower limit of quantification of 1.25 ng/g for most cannabinoids. The tissue data has been evaluated using the FDA withdrawal calculator in R. The longest tissue withdrawal was for cannabinol (CBD) in adipose tissue. The estimated withdrawal time was 154 days. A pilot study was conducted to determine if cannabinoids in industrial hemp impact chlortetracycline (CTC) absorption in cattle and clearance of Anaplasma marginale infection. Twelve (12) Holstein steers were experimentally infected with A. marginale, and placed into 4 treatment groups. Treatment groups are (1) negative control (CTRL; alfalfa meal), (2) industrial hemp at 5 mg/kg/d cannabidiol (HEMP), (3) chlortetracycline at 1.1 mg/kg/d (CTC), and (4) industrial hemp at 5 mg/kg/d cannabidiol and chlortetracycline at 1.1 mg/kg/d (COMBO). Cattle were fed for 63 days and followed for 77 days. Blood samples for plasma drug concentrations (cannabinoids and CTC) and anaplasmosis status were obtained. Fecal samples were obtained for future analysis to determine fecal cannabinoids and microbiome changes. Data is currently being analyzed for this study.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: MD Kleinhenz. Abstract: Winter Meeting of the Academy of Veterinary Consultants. Kansas City, MO. December 2023
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Tissue residue depletion of cannabinoids in cattle fed industrial hemp Authors: Fritz BR, Kleinhenz MD, Magnin G, Griffin J, Weeder MM, Curtis AK, Martin MS, Leslie AA, Kleinhenz KE, Johnson BT, Fritz SA, Montgomery SR, Coetzee JF. Society of Phi Zeta, Sigma Chapter Research Day, March 07, 2023


Progress 06/01/22 to 05/31/23

Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audience represents several constituencies. Foremost, our work is designed to be applicable to veterinary professionals and animal scientists. The overall goal of this work is to lower the barriers for research of industrial hemp and cannabinoids in cattle. Animal scientists in industry and academia are targeted because as the results of our work will facilitate the study of industrial hemp as a cattle feed. Our work is a key piece needed for the approval of industrial hemp plant by-products as animal feeds and providing researchers the opportunity to investigate the effects of cannabinoids in cattle. To best communicate the value of the research to a broad audience, our group will participate in national and regional conference proceedings and publication of findings in peer-reviewed journals. In the past reporting period, our group has communicated preliminary data to other scientists and students via presentations at national conferences, publications, and news releases. Changes/Problems:We have experienced extensive delays in obtaining a Food Use Authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to complete the milk residue components in lactating dairy cows. These data are necessary so that the animals enrolled in the study can by marketed for slaughter at the end of their productive lifespan. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Dr. Michael Kleinhenz has participated in the activities of the industrial hemp coallition and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) in discussions with FDA regarding the establishiment of appropriate meat withhold periods for cattle fed industrial hemp. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been shared among hemp researchers and veterinarians. Hemp transport: AABP annual meeting Hemp research report: 2022 Hemp Feed Workshop What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?During the next reporting period, our group plans to complete the final aim of determining the cannabinoid concentrations in milk harvested from dairy cattle administered industrial hemp. This study was not completed in 2022 due to delays in obtaining a Food Use Authorization from the FDA.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The final tissues to determine a tissue residue depletion and withdrawal interval have been analyzed. The analytical method can determine the concentrations of 15 cannabinoids in hemp. The assay has a lower limit of quantification of 1.25 ng/g for most cannabinoids. The tissue data has been evaluated using the FDA withdrawal calculator in R. The longest tissue withdrawal was for cannabinol (CBD) in adipose tissue. The estimated withdrawal time was 154 days. A pilot study was conducted to study if cannabinoids in industrial hemp impact chlortetracycline (CTC) absorption in cattle and clearance of Anaplasmosis marginale infection. Twelve (12) Holstein steers were experimentally infected with A. marginale, and placed into 4 treatment groups. Treatment groups are (1) negative control (CTRL; alfalfa meal), (2) industrial hemp at 5 mg/kg/d cannabidiol (HEMP), (3) chlortetracycline at 1.1 mg/kg/d (CTC), and (4) industrial hemp at 5 mg/kg/d cannabidiol and chlortetracycline at 1.1 mg/kg/d (COMBO). Cattle were fed for 63 days and followed for 77 days. Blood samples for plasma drug concentrations (cannabinoids and CTC) and anaplasmosis status were obtained. Fecal samples were obtained for future analysis to determine fecal cannabinoids and microbiome changes. Data is currently being analyzed for this study.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Pilot study to investigate the impacts of cannabinoids from industrial hemp and repeated transportation events on cattle health and immune status. BR Fritz, MD Kleinhenz, G Magnin, J Griffin, M Weeder, A Leslie, AK Curtis, and JF Coetzee. Abstract: Annual Meeting of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, Long Beach, CA


Progress 06/01/21 to 05/31/22

Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audience represents several constituencies. Foremost, our work is designed to be applicable to veterinary professionals and animal scientists. The overall goal of this work is to lower the barriers for research of industrial hemp and cannabinoids in cattle. Animal scientists in industry and academia are targeted because as the results of our work will facilitate the study of industrial hemp as a cattle feed. Our work is a key piece needed for the approval of industrial hemp plant by-products as animal feeds and providing researchers the opportunity to investigate the effects of cannabinoids in cattle. To best communicate the value of the research to a broad audience, our group will participate in national and regional conference proceedings and publication of findings in peer-reviewed journals. In the past reporting period, our group has communicated preliminary data to other scientists and students via presentations at national conferences, publications, and news releases. Changes/Problems:The only problem encountered has been the recovery of cannabinoids from adipose tissue. Changes in sample clean-up and preparation have been made and testing continues. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Nothing Reported How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?One project has been published as peer-reviewed publication with open access license to allow for a broad distribution to the general public as well as academic institutions. In addition to the publication, data has been disseminated by intra-institutional seminars to veterinary practitioners, scientists, hemp regulators, and FDA officials; and press-releases through Kansas State's social media. A list of the news interviews are provided here: Hemp as an alternative feed for cattle, BCI Cattle Chat. March 11, 2022 Destressing benefit from feeding cattle industrial hemp, Kansas New Service, March 30, 2022 Feeding hemp high in cannabidiolic acid reduces stress and inflammation, Cannabis Business times, April 4, 2022 Feeding hemp may reduce stress and inflammation, Kansas Ag Day, April 5, 2022 Feeding hemp as a cattle feed. Brownfield Ag News, April 8, 2022 Feeding hemp may reduce stress and inflammation, KAKE News, April 8, 2022 Heat stress related deaths in Kansas cattle, USA Today, June 16, 2022 Cannabinoids in Cattle Feed: Current Knowledge and Next Steps, Kansas Department of Agriculture Industrial Hemp Stakeholder Meeting, July 19, 2022. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?During the next reporting period, our group plans to complete the final aim of determining the cannabinoid concentrations in milk harvested from dairy cattle administered industrial hemp. This study was not completed in 2021 due to COVID-19 related delays in planned research projects at the University dairy. By completing this project and finalizing the tissue reside data; we will have a better understanding of the distribution of cannabinoids in cattle and will eliminate a barrier to industrial hemp research in food production animals. This will allow submission of a food use authorization from the FDA as to not require the purchase of dairy cattle after hemp exposure.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? A preliminary study was conducted to determine the pharmacokinetics of cannabinoids in cattle fed industrial hemp (IH) for 14 days. A secondary goal was to determine what impact cannabinoids may have on stress biomarkers and animal activity. In the initial 24 hours dosing/feeding period, the geometric mean maximum concentration of CBDA was 22.1 ng/mL and the geometric mean minimum concentration of CBDA was 12.3 ng/mL. These were observed at 16.7 h and 9.3 h after the initial IH feeding respectively. The geometric mean of the terminal half-life (T½) was 15.3 h. A geometric mean residence time of 822.2 h was determined, and the geometric mean AUC0-∞ was 13,569.6 h x ng/mL. The mean accumulation index was 1.5 for the 14-day feeding period. Feeding hemp for 14 days did not alter the complete blood counts or serum biochemistry profiles of the cattle on study. Hemp fed cattle had lower cortisol concentrations than control cattle. Hemp fed cattle also had lower prostaglandin E2 concentrations. This was also evident by a negative percent change (lowering) in PGE2 concentrations over the course of the study. Cattle in the control group had increases in PGE2 concentrations. Interestingly, cattle in the hemp group had more lying bouts and lying time than control cattle. The number of steps taken was not different between treatment groups. In summary, the results of this study show that feeding hemp with high cannabinoid content does not result in appreciable accumulation of CBDA in the body; and that it increases lying time and decreases stress and inflammatory biomarkers. Based on the findings of the 14 day feeding trial and decreased in stress and inflammation, we wanted to investigate if this could be applied to a stressful event. Using cattle coming off of another study, we conducted a transportation study. A Latin square study design was used with each animal being exposed to the four treatments consisting of: transportation + hemp; transportation + placebo; control + hemp; and control + placebo. The study commenced December 2021 and concluded February 2022. Based on preliminary data available, transported cattle lost 24 kg of body weight during the transport event. When enrolled in the transport + hemp group at 24 hours post-dosing, cattle were 19 kg below their starting weight. Transport + hemp cattle were - 14 kg from their starting weight. Additional outcomes not analyzed at this time include: kinetic gait analysis, serum cortisol, complete blood counts, serum biochemistry, prostaglandin E2 metabolites, and serum amyloid A concentrations.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Kleinhenz MD, Weeder M, Montgomery S, Martin M, Curtis A, Magnin G, Lin Z, Griffin J, Coetzee JF. Short term feeding of industrial hemp with a high cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) content increases lying behavior and reduces biomarkers of stress and inflammation in Holstein steers. Scientific Reports. 2022 https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-07795-z
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Chakrabarty S, Serum EM, Winders TM, Neville B, Kleinhenz MD, Magnin G, Coetzee JF, Dahlen CR, Swanson KC, Smith DJ. Rapid quantification of cannabinoids in beef tissues and bodily fluids using direct-delivery electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Food Addit. Contam. [Accepted for publication 21 July 2022] https://doi.org/10.1080/19440049.2022.2107711


Progress 06/01/20 to 05/31/21

Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audience represents several constituencies. Foremost, our work is designed to be applicable to veterinary professionals and animal scientists. The overall goal of this work is to lower the barriers for research of industrial hemp and cannabinoids in cattle. Animal scientists in industry and academia are targeted because as the results of our work will facilitate the study of industrial hemp as a cattle feed. Our work is a key piece needed for the approval of industrial hemp plant by-products as animal feeds and providing researchers the opportunity to investigate the effects of cannabinoids in cattle. To best communicate the value of the research to a broad audience, our group will participate in national and regional conference proceedings and publication of findings in peer-reviewed journals. In the past reporting period, our group has communicated preliminary data to other scientists and students via presentations at national conferences, publications, and news releases. Changes/Problems:The only problem encountered has been the recovery of cannabinoids from adipose tissue. Changes in sample clean-up and preparation have been made and testing continues. Study progress was also delayed due to the COIVID 19 pandemic. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This research has been part of the programs of study of 2 Masters Students. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?One project has been published as peer-reviewed publication with open access license to allow for a broad distribution to the general public as well as academic institutions. In addition to the publication, data has been disseminated by intra-institutional seminars to veterinary practitioners, scientists, hemp regulators, and FDA officials; and press-releases through Kansas State's social media. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?During the next reporting period, our group plans to complete the final aim of determining the cannabinoid concentrations in milk harvested from dairy cattle administered industrial hemp. This study was not completed in 2021 due to COVID-19 related delays in planned research projects at the University dairy. By completing this project and finalizing the tissue reside data; we will have a better understanding of the distribution of cannabinoids in cattle and will eliminate a barrier to industrial hemp research in food production animals.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? A preliminary study was conducted to determine the pharmacokinetics of cannabinoids in cattle fed industrial hemp (IH) for 14 days. A secondary goal was to determine what impact cannabinoids may have on stress biomarkers and animal activity. In the initial 24 hours dosing/feeding period, the geometric mean maximum concentration of CBDA was 22.1 ng/mL and the geometric mean minimum concentration of CBDA was 12.3 ng/mL. These were observed at 16.7 h and 9.3 h after the initial IH feeding respectively. The geometric mean of the terminal half-life (T½) was 15.3 h. A geometric mean residence time of 822.2 h was determined, and the geometric mean AUC0-∞ was 13,569.6 h x ng/mL. The mean accumulation index was 1.5 for the 14 day feeding period. Feeding hemp for 14 days did not alter the complete blood counts or serum biochemistry profiles of the cattle on study. Hemp fed cattle had lower cortisol concentrations than control cattle. Hemp fed cattle also had lower prostaglandin E2 concentrations. This was also evident by a negative percent change (lowering) in PGE2 concentrations over the course of the study. Cattle in the control group had increases in PGE2 concentrations. Interestingly, cattle in the hemp group had more lying bouts and lying time than control cattle. The number of steps taken was not different between treatment groups. In summary, the results of this study show that feeding hemp with high cannabinoid content does not result in appreciable accumulation of CBDA in the body; and that it increases lying time and decreases stress and inflammatory biomarkers. Based on the findings of the 14 day feeding trial and decreased in stress and inflammation, we wanted to investigate if this could be applied to a stressful event. Using cattle coming off of another study, we conducted a transportation study. A Latin square study design was used with each animal being exposed to the four treatments consisting of: transportation + hemp; transportation + placebo; control + hemp; and control + placebo. The study commenced December 2021 and concluded February 2022. Based on preliminary data available, transported cattle lost 24 kg of body weight during the transport event. When enrolled in the transport + hemp group at 24 hours post-dosing, cattle were 19 kg below their starting weight. Transport + hemp cattle were - 14 kg from their starting weight. Additional outcomes not analyzed at this time include: kinetic gait analysis, serum cortisol, complete blood counts, serum biochemistry, prostaglandin E2 metabolites, and serum amyloid A concentrations.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Kleinhenz, M.D., Magnin, G., Enlsey, S.M., Griffin, J.J., Goeser, J., Lynch, E., Coetzee, J F*. 2020. Nutrient concentrations, digestibility, and cannabinoid concentrations of industrial hemp plant components. Applied Animal Science. 36 (4): 489  494. https://doi.org/10.15232/aas.2020-02018
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Kleinhenz, M.D., Magnin, G., Lin, Z., Griffin,J., Kleinhenz, K.E., Montgomery, S., Curtis, A., Martin, M, Coetzee, J F*. 2020. Plasma concentrations of eleven cannabinoids in cattle following oral administration of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa). Sci Rep 10, 12753. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-69768-4