Science at the center of our cultivation
We believe great cannabis starts with evidence. Our research program connects cultivation, lab analytics, and real-world outcomes so every crop benefits from measurable insight and continuous improvement.
What we study
Genetics and strain selection that express reliable cannabinoid and terpene profiles
Cultivation variables such as light, climate, and nutrients that influence plant health and chemistry
Quality and safety testing that verifies potency, terpene composition, and purity
Patient and consumer outcomes that connect profiles to real needs such as sleep, pain, and anxiety
How we work
We partner with academic investigators, clinicians, and independent laboratories. We contribute de-identified data from our processes, support IRB-approved studies, and translate findings into better products, education, and staff training.
Featured studies and projects
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Citation: Fedorova, E.V., Ryan, V., Ataiants, J., Seaberg, J., Finkelstein, M., Cocchiaro, B.F., & Lankenau, S.E. (2025). Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 1-12.
Description:
Drawn from Drexel’s statewide patient registry, this study mapped how more than 1,200 patients align terpene and cannabinoid profiles with therapeutic goals such as pain and anxiety relief, highlighting preferences for myrcene, linalool, and β-caryophyllene. -
Citation: Fedorova, E.V., Ataiants, J., & Lankenau, S.E. (2024, October). Poster presented at the APHA Annual Meeting, Minneapolis, MN.
Description:
Using latent-class analysis on over 1,200 registry patients, the study identified three sleep-related patient subgroups — anxiety-dominant, pain-dominant, and pain + anxiety — each with distinct cannabis use patterns and terpene preferences. -
What it shows
Citation: Fedorova, E.V., Ataiants, J., & Lankenau, S.E. (2025).
Description:
A 12-month registry study of over 500 patients with anxiety using GAD-7 and latent-class growth analysis. Found three distinct anxiety trajectories with similar use levels but different outcomes, underscoring the importance of product alignment. -
Citation: Fedorova, E.V., Ataiants, J., & Lankenau, S.E. (2024).
Description:
Registry-based mixed-methods study of 627 Pennsylvania medical cannabis patients. Showed that intergenerational cannabis use among adults often supports learning, access, and reduced stigma, challenging older assumptions about harm. -
Citation: Fedorova, E.V., Ataiants, J., & Lankenau, S.E. (2025). Presented at CPDD 2025.
Description:
Mixed-methods study with over 1,000 survey respondents and 40 interviews. Demonstrated condition-specific preferences for form factors — for example, flower for fast onset in PTSD/anxiety, CO₂ oil for neuropathic pain, concentrates for IBD. -
Principal Investigator: Benjamin Cocchiaro, MD, MPH
Description:
Ongoing study comparing unregulated hemp-store products with Pennsylvania-regulated dispensary products for safety, contaminant levels, and label accuracy, highlighting the value of tested and compliant cannabis. -
Principal Investigator: Benjamin Cocchiaro, MD, MPH
Description:
Prospective cohort of 56 medical cannabis patients undergoing a 21-day tolerance break. Most participants reduced use; cravings decreased without worsening anxiety or pain. Supports education on sustainable cannabis use. -
Trial: FDA IND 171444
Description:
First randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial of isolated cannabinol (CBN) for sleep, using subjective and wearable Oura-ring measures to assess onset, efficiency, and sleep quality. -
Description:
First U.S. Phase 2 randomized, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate CBD as an aid for cannabis tolerance-reset and sustainable use. Builds a regulatory pathway for future cannabinoid-based interventions. -
Citation: Ardeleanu, K., Garfield, T., & Steinberg, H. (2024). Poster presented at APHA Annual Meeting & Expo, Minneapolis, MN.
Description:
Pilot study highlighting how autistic adults and caregivers use cannabis strategically for sleep, sensory regulation, anxiety, and GI comfort. Identifies stigma and access barriers in this underserved group. -
Lead Investigator: Rodrigo España, PhD, Drexel University College of Medicine
Description:
Preclinical, within-subjects study using EEG and EMG to examine effects of CBD, CBN, and linalool on natural sleep architecture. Aims to clarify mechanisms behind sleep-related cannabis effects. -
Status: Year 1 completed; Year 2 in progress
Description:
Preclinical study in neuropathic pain models showing CBD + CBG effective in males and CBD ± CBC effective in females; ongoing work compares combinations to gabapentin and explores relapse prevention in pain-linked alcohol use disorder. -
Principal Investigator: Stephen Dickinson, PhD, Drexel Urban Health Collaborative
Description:
National longitudinal geospatial database of dispensaries (1996-2019; extension to 2024 underway). Identifies urban/rural and demographic siting disparities, providing data to inform equitable access and policy readiness. -
Principal Investigator: Luis Valdez, PhD, Drexel Dornsife School of Public Health
Description:
Community-based participatory research capturing cultural context, perceptions, and access challenges for Latino cannabis users in Philadelphia, offering insights for culturally informed education and outreach.
Ethics and Compliance
All listed studies are IRB-approved and/or FDA-regulated where applicable. Information presented here is summarized directly from published papers, conference posters, or official study descriptions provided by Drexel University investigators.