Robert Laprairie

Dr. Robert Laprairie is an Assistant Professor at the University of Saskatchewan, specifically within the College of Pharmacy and Nutrition. He holds the CIHR-GlaxoSmithKline Chair in Drug Discovery and Development and is also an adjunct professor in the Department of Pharmacology. His research primarily focuses on the endocannabinoid system, particularly the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R), and aims to discover and develop drugs that target these receptors, which are activated by compounds such as THC from cannabis.134

Dr. Laprairie's laboratory investigates cannabinoid drugs derived from both synthetic and natural sources, exploring their potential therapeutic applications for conditions like pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and movement disorders. His work has gained attention for its implications in treating epilepsy, particularly through his research on compounds that modulate the endocannabinoid system without producing the psychoactive effects typically associated with cannabis.123

His collaborative approach has led to significant advancements in understanding how cannabinoid compounds can be utilized in medical treatments, especially in partnership with other researchers focused on epilepsy at the University of Saskatchewan.2 Dr. Laprairie's contributions to science have been recognized through various awards, reflecting his dedication to advancing knowledge in pharmacology and neuroscience.25