LISTEN: Can cannabis treat kidney failure?
Aberdeen scientists may be close to proving that cannabis can treat diabetic kidney failure.
Scientists at Aberdeen University are trying to discover whether cannabis could treat diabetic kidney failure.
The study - looking at whether synthetic cannabinoid compounds can be used to make the kidneys respond better to insulin - is to be launched by researchers at the University.
The study is funded by Diabetes UK.
Active ingredients in the cannabis plant are already known to have beneficial effects for treatment of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
In 2013, 3.2 million people in the UK had diabetes. By 2025 it is estimated that number will rise in 5 million.
Our reporter Hope Webb spoke to Dr Mirela Delibegovic, who is leading the story.
Listen to that interview here: