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The endocannabinoid system and cancer: therapeutic implication.
Josée Guindon1, Andrea G Hohmann
1Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
British Journal of Pharmacology
|March 18, 2011
Summary
The endocannabinoid system, including cannabis compounds like delta-9-THC, shows potential for treating breast, prostate, and bone cancers. Further research and clinical trials are needed to confirm cannabinoid efficacy in cancer therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
Background:
- The endocannabinoid system regulates physiological and pathological processes, including cancer.
- Cannabis compounds, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC), interact with CB(1) and CB(2) receptors.
- Endocannabinoids like anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are endogenous signaling molecules.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between the endocannabinoid system and anti-cancer actions of cannabinoids.
- To examine the impact of endocannabinoid system activation on breast, prostate, and bone cancers.
- To discuss the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in cancer treatment based on clinical trials.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on the endocannabinoid system and cancer.
- Analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies on cannabinoids' effects on cancer cells.
- Examination of data from clinical trials investigating cannabinoid-based cancer therapies.
Main Results:
- Cannabinoids exhibit anti-tumour actions, including inhibition of proliferation and migration, and induction of apoptosis.
- Activation of the endocannabinoid system affects breast, prostate, and bone cancers.
- Clinical trials suggest therapeutic potential for cannabinoids in cancer management.
Conclusions:
- Cannabis-derived compounds offer potential as adjuncts to improve cancer therapy and patient quality of life.
- Further basic research and clinical trials are warranted to establish the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids for breast, prostate, and bone cancers.
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