Cannabidiol and microRNAs: shared cellular targets and new insights for developing anti-seizure modalities

Cannabidiol (CBD) and 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the two main components of cannabis that provide its therapeutic benefits. CBD has been extensively studied for its role in reducing seizures, among its many other uses. While the exact mechanisms by which CBD works to relieve seizures have not yet been fully determined, it is evident that CBD effectively diminishes seizure activity and is now being used as an approved treatment for severe forms of non-responsive epilepsy. As essential components of several biological processes, microRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial for achieving optimal cellular functioning. During the past few years, there has been an increasing interest in elucidating the functional significance of microRNAs in epilepsy. Yet, there is still considerable ambiguity regarding the precise mechanisms by which miRNAs are involved in seizure disorders and also their direct interaction with CBD. Herein, we seek to present an overview of the varying mechanisms by which CBD offers therapeutic benefits concerning seizures. Accordingly, we highlighted the shared molecular targets between microRNAs and CBD in alleviating seizure symptoms to shed light on the ways in which new therapeutic and diagnostic modalities could be shaped in the future.