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Tan S, Zaman QU, Fahad S, Deng G. Cannabidiol reverts the malignant phenotype of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via the GPR55/TP53/MAPK axis. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2024; 1868:130651. [PMID: 38825256 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2024.130651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the anti-tumor effect of CBD on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. Here, we investigated whether CBD displays anti-tumorigenic effects in HCC cells and whether it could reduce tumorigenesis and metastases in vivo. First, this study treated HCC cells with different concentrations of CBD, followed by analyzing the changes in the proliferative, apoptotic, migratory and invasive abilities. The effects of CBD on the growth and metastasis of HCC cells in vivo were verified by tumorigenesis and metastasis assays. Subsequently, the target genes of CBD were predicted through the SwissTarget website and the genes differentially expressed in cells after CBD treatment were analyzed by microarray for intersection. The enrichment of the pathways after CBD treatment was analyzed by KEGG enrichment analysis, followed by western blot validation. Finally, rescue assays were used to validate the functions of genes as well as pathways in the growth and metastasis of HCC cells. A significant weakening of the ability of HCC cells to grow and metastasize in vitro and in vivo was observed upon CBD treatment. Mechanistically, CBD reduced GRP55 expression in HCC cells, along with increased TP53 expression and blocked MAPK signaling activation. In CBD-treated cells, the anti-tumor of HCC cells was restored after overexpression of GRP55 or deletion of TP53. CBD inhibits the MAPK signaling activation and increases the TP53 expression by downregulating GRP55 in HCC cells, thereby suppressing the growth and metastasis of HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirui Tan
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650504, China; School of Agriculture, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650504, China.
| | - Qamar Uz Zaman
- School of Agriculture, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650504, China; Department of Environmental Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore 54590, Pakistan.
| | - Shah Fahad
- Department of Agronomy, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakh-tunkhwa 23200, Pakistan; Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon.
| | - Gang Deng
- School of Agriculture, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650504, China.
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2
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Kim NY, Shivanne Gowda SG, Lee SG, Sethi G, Ahn KS. Cannabidiol induces ERK activation and ROS production to promote autophagy and ferroptosis in glioblastoma cells. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 394:110995. [PMID: 38583854 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.110995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Small molecule-driven ERK activation is known to induce autophagy and ferroptosis in cancer cells. Herein the effect of cannabidiol (CBD), a phytochemical derived from Cannabis sativa, on ERK-driven autophagy and ferroptosis has been demonstrated in glioblastoma (GBM) cells (U87 and U373 cells). CBD imparted significant cytotoxicity in GBM cells, induced activation of ERK (not JNK and p38), and increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. It increased the autophagy-related proteins such as LC3 II, Atg7, and Beclin-1 and modulated the expression of ferroptosis-related proteins such as glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), SLC7A11, and TFRC. CBD significantly elevated the endoplasmic reticulum stress, ROS, and iron load, and decreased GSH levels. Inhibitors of autophagy (3-MA) and ferroptosis (Fer-1) had a marginal effect on CBD-induced autophagy/ferroptosis. Treatment with N-acetyl-cysteine (antioxidant) or PD98059 (ERK inhibitor) partly reverted the CBD-induced autophagy/ferroptosis by decreasing the activation of ERK and the production of ROS. Overall, CBD induced autophagy and ferroptosis through the activation of ERK and generation of ROS in GBM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Young Kim
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
| | | | - Seok-Geun Lee
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Ma L, Liu M, Liu C, Zhang H, Yang S, An J, Qu G, Song S, Cao Q. Research Progress on the Mechanism of the Antitumor Effects of Cannabidiol. Molecules 2024; 29:1943. [PMID: 38731434 PMCID: PMC11085351 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29091943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive ingredient extracted from the hemp plant, has shown therapeutic effects in a variety of diseases, including anxiety, nervous system disorders, inflammation, and tumors. CBD can exert its antitumor effect by regulating the cell cycle, inducing tumor cell apoptosis and autophagy, and inhibiting tumor cell invasion, migration, and angiogenesis. This article reviews the proposed antitumor mechanisms of CBD, aiming to provide references for the clinical treatment of tumor diseases and the rational use of CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ma
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China; (L.M.); (M.L.); (C.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Mengke Liu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China; (L.M.); (M.L.); (C.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Chuntong Liu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China; (L.M.); (M.L.); (C.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Huachang Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China; (L.M.); (M.L.); (C.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Shude Yang
- Department of Edible Mushrooms, School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China;
| | - Jing An
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego (UCSD), La Jolla, CA 92037, USA;
| | - Guiwu Qu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China;
| | - Shuling Song
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China; (L.M.); (M.L.); (C.L.); (H.Z.)
| | - Qizhi Cao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China; (L.M.); (M.L.); (C.L.); (H.Z.)
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4
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Kim NY, Mohan CD, Sethi G, Ahn KS. Cannabidiol activates MAPK pathway to induce apoptosis, paraptosis, and autophagy in colorectal cancer cells. J Cell Biochem 2024; 125:e30537. [PMID: 38358093 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation by natural compounds is known to be involved in the induction of apoptosis, paraptosis, and autophagy. Cannabidiol (CBD), a bioactive compound found in Cannabis sativa, is endowed with many pharmacological activities. We investigated the cytotoxic effect of CBD in a panel of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells (HT-29, SW480, HCT-116, and HCT-15). CBD induced significant cytotoxicity as evidenced by the results of MTT assay, live-dead assay, and flow cytometric analysis. Since CBD displayed cytotoxicity against CRC cells, we examined the effect of CBD on apoptosis, paraptosis, and autophagy. CBD decreased the expression of antiapoptotic proteins and increased the Annexin-V-positive as well as TUNEL-positive cells suggesting that CBD induces apoptosis. CBD increased the expression of ATF4 (activating transcription factor 4) and CHOP (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein), elevated endoplasmic reticulum stress, and enhanced reactive oxygen species levels indicating that CBD also promotes paraptosis. CBD also induced the expression of Atg7, phospho-Beclin-1, and LC3 suggesting that CBD also accelerates autophagy. Since, the MAPK pathway is a common cascade that is involved in the regulation of apoptosis, paraptosis, and autophagy, we investigated the effect of CBD on the activation of JNK, p38, and ERK pathways. CBD activated all the forms of MAPK proteins and pharmacological inhibition of these proteins reverted the observed effects. Our findings implied that CBD could induce CRC cell death by activating apoptosis, paraptosis, and autophagy through the activation of the MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Young Kim
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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5
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Shalev N, Kendall M, Kumar N, Tiwari S, Anil SM, Hauschner H, Swamy SG, Doron-Faingenboim A, Belausov E, Kendall BE, Koltai H. Integrated transcriptome and cell phenotype analysis suggest involvement of PARP1 cleavage, Hippo/Wnt, TGF-β and MAPK signaling pathways in ovarian cancer cells response to cannabis and PARP1 inhibitor treatment. Front Genet 2024; 15:1333964. [PMID: 38322025 PMCID: PMC10844430 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1333964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabis sativa is utilized mainly for palliative care worldwide. Ovarian cancer (OC) is a lethal gynecologic cancer. A particular cannabis extract fraction ('F7') and the Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase 1 (PARP1) inhibitor niraparib act synergistically to promote OC cell apoptosis. Here we identified genetic pathways that are altered by the synergistic treatment in OC cell lines Caov3 and OVCAR3. Materials and methods: Gene expression profiles were determined by RNA sequencing and quantitative PCR. Microscopy was used to determine actin arrangement, a scratch assay to determine cell migration and flow cytometry to determine apoptosis, cell cycle and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity. Western blotting was used to determine protein levels. Results: Gene expression results suggested variations in gene expression between the two cell lines examined. Multiple genetic pathways, including Hippo/Wnt, TGF-β/Activin and MAPK were enriched with genes differentially expressed by niraparib and/or F7 treatments in both cell lines. Niraparib + F7 treatment led to cell cycle arrest and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, inhibited cell migration, reduced the % of ALDH positive cells in the population and enhanced PARP1 cleavage. Conclusion: The synergistic effect of the niraparib + F7 may result from the treatment affecting multiple genetic pathways involving cell death and reducing mesenchymal characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurit Shalev
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Volcani Center, Agriculture Research Organization, Institute of Plant Science, Rishon LeZion, Israel
| | | | - Navin Kumar
- Volcani Center, Agriculture Research Organization, Institute of Plant Science, Rishon LeZion, Israel
| | - Sudeep Tiwari
- Volcani Center, Agriculture Research Organization, Institute of Plant Science, Rishon LeZion, Israel
| | - Seegehalli M. Anil
- Volcani Center, Agriculture Research Organization, Institute of Plant Science, Rishon LeZion, Israel
| | - Hagit Hauschner
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Savvemala G. Swamy
- Volcani Center, Agriculture Research Organization, Institute of Plant Science, Rishon LeZion, Israel
| | - Adi Doron-Faingenboim
- Volcani Center, Agriculture Research Organization, Institute of Plant Science, Rishon LeZion, Israel
| | - Eduard Belausov
- Volcani Center, Agriculture Research Organization, Institute of Plant Science, Rishon LeZion, Israel
| | | | - Hinanit Koltai
- Volcani Center, Agriculture Research Organization, Institute of Plant Science, Rishon LeZion, Israel
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6
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O’Reilly E, Khalifa K, Cosgrave J, Azam H, Prencipe M, Simpson JC, Gallagher WM, Perry AS. Cannabidiol Inhibits the Proliferation and Invasiveness of Prostate Cancer Cells. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2023; 86:2151-2161. [PMID: 37703852 PMCID: PMC10521019 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in men, responsible for over 375,000 deaths in 2020. Novel therapeutic strategies are needed to improve outcomes. Cannabinoids, chemical components of the cannabis plant, are a possible solution. Preclinical evidence demonstrates that cannabinoids can modulate several cancer hallmarks of many tumor types. However, the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in prostate cancer has not yet been fully explored. The aim of this study was to investigate the antiproliferative and anti-invasive properties of cannabidiol (CBD) in prostate cancer cells in vitro. CBD inhibited cell viability and proliferation, accompanied by reduced expression of key cell cycle proteins, specifically cyclin D3 and cyclin-dependent kinases CDK2, CDK4, and CDK1, and inhibition of AKT phosphorylation. The effects of CBD on cell viability were not blocked by cannabinoid receptor antagonists, a transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel blocker, or an agonist of the G-protein-coupled receptor GPR55, suggesting that CBD acts independently of these targets in prostate cancer cells. Furthermore, CBD reduced the invasiveness of highly metastatic PC-3 cells and increased protein expression of E-cadherin. The ability of CBD to inhibit prostate cancer cell proliferation and invasiveness suggests that CBD may have potential as a future chemotherapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve O’Reilly
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Karima Khalifa
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Joanne Cosgrave
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Haleema Azam
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- UCD
School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Maria Prencipe
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- UCD
School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Jeremy C. Simpson
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - William M. Gallagher
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- UCD
School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Antoinette S. Perry
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
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7
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García-Morales L, Mendoza-Rodríguez MG, Tapia Ramírez J, Meza I. CBD Inhibits In Vivo Development of Human Breast Cancer Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13235. [PMID: 37686042 PMCID: PMC10488207 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a critical component of cancer development. Previously, we showed in vitro that IL-1β treatment of non-invasive human breast cancer MCF-7 cells promoted their transition to a malignant phenotype (6D cells). This epithelial-mesenchymal transition was reverted by exposure to cannabidiol (CBD). We show in a murine model that subcutaneous inoculation of 6D cells induced formation and development of tumors, the cells of which keep traits of malignancy. These processes were interrupted by administration of CBD under two schemes: therapeutic and prophylactic. In the therapeutic scheme, 6D cells inoculated mice developed tumors that reached a mean volume of 540 mm3 at 45 days, while 50% of CBD-treated mice showed gradual resorption of tumors. In the prophylactic scheme, mice were pre-treated for 15 days with CBD before cells inoculation. The tumors formed remained small and were eliminated under continuous CBD treatment in 66% of the animals. Histological and molecular characterization of tumors, from both schemes, revealed that CBD-treated cells decreased the expression of malignancy markers and show traits related with apoptosis. These results confirm that in vivo CBD blocks development of breast cancer tumors formed by cells induced to malignancy by IL-1β, endorsing its therapeutic potential for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lázaro García-Morales
- Department of Molecular Biomedicine, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Avenida Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico;
| | - Mónica G. Mendoza-Rodríguez
- Unidad de Investigación en Biomedicina, Facultad de Estudios Superiores-Iztacala (FES-I), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico;
| | - José Tapia Ramírez
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Avenida Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico;
| | - Isaura Meza
- Department of Molecular Biomedicine, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Avenida Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico;
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8
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Alves P, Amaral C, Teixeira N, Correia-da-Silva G. Effects of a combination of cannabidiol and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol on key biological functions of HTR-8/SVneo extravillous trophoblast cells. Toxicology 2023; 495:153614. [PMID: 37567336 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, cannabis use has increased among pregnant women. In addition, the phytocannabinoids cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) alone or in combination are being used for therapeutical applications. THC and CBD are able to cross the placenta and a lot remains unknown concerning their impact on angiogenesis and extravillous trophoblasts' (EVTs) migration and invasion, which are essential processes for placentation. Thus, in this study, the HTR-8/SVneo cell line was employed to evaluate the effects of CBD, THC and of their combination (1:1, 2 µM). Cannabinoids affected epithelial-mesenchymal transition, as showed by increased expression of the epithelial protein marker E-cadherin for CBD and CBD plus THC treatments, and decrease of mesenchymal intermediate filament vimentin for all treatments. The gene expression of the metalloproteinases MMP2 and MMP9, and of their inhibitors TIMP1 and TIMP2 was increased, except the latter for THC treatment. Moreover, CBD reduced cell migration and invasion, an effect that was enhanced by its combination with THC. CBD with or without THC also upregulated the gene expression of PGF, while the anti-angiogenic factor sFLT1 was increased for all treatments. VEGFA and FLT1 were not affected. Alone or combined CBD and THC also decreased tube segments' length. Additionally, ERK1/2 and STAT3 phosphorylation was increased in the CBD and CBD plus THC-treated cells, while THC only activated STAT3. AKT activation was only affected by CBD. This work demonstrates that the exposure to cannabinoid-based products containing CBD and/or THC, may interfere with key processes of EVTs differentiation. Therefore, crucial phases of placental development can be affected, compromising pregnancy success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Alves
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Amaral
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Natércia Teixeira
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Georgina Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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9
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Creanga-Murariu I, Filipiuc LE, Cuciureanu M, Tamba BI, Alexa-Stratulat T. Should oncologists trust cannabinoids? Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1211506. [PMID: 37521486 PMCID: PMC10373070 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1211506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis enjoyed a "golden age" as a medicinal product in the late 19th, early 20th century, but the increased risk of overdose and abuse led to its criminalization. However, the 21st century have witnessed a resurgence of interest and a large body of literature regarding the benefits of cannabinoids have emerged. As legalization and decriminalization have spread around the world, cancer patients are increasingly interested in the potential utility of cannabinoids. Although eager to discuss cannabis use with their oncologist, patients often find them to be reluctant, mainly because clinicians are still not convinced by the existing evidence-based data to guide their treatment plans. Physicians should prescribe cannabis only if a careful explanation can be provided and follow up response evaluation ensured, making it mandatory for them to be up to date with the positive and also negative aspects of the cannabis in the case of cancer patients. Consequently, this article aims to bring some clarifications to clinicians regarding the sometimes-confusing various nomenclature under which this plant is mentioned, current legislation and the existing evidence (both preclinical and clinical) for the utility of cannabinoids in cancer patients, for either palliation of the associated symptoms or even the potential antitumor effects that cannabinoids may have.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Creanga-Murariu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
- Oncology Department, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Leontina Elena Filipiuc
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Magda Cuciureanu
- Pharmacology Department, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Bogdan-Ionel Tamba
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
- Pharmacology Department, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
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10
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Kaur S, Nathani A, Singh M. Exosomal delivery of cannabinoids against cancer. Cancer Lett 2023; 566:216243. [PMID: 37257632 PMCID: PMC10426019 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs) originating from endosomes that play a role in cellular communication. These vesicles which mimic the parental cells that release them are promising candidates for targeted drug delivery and therapeutic applications against cancer because of their favorable biocompatibility, specific targeting, low toxicity, and immunogenicity. Currently, Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids (e.g., CBG, THCV, CBC), are being explored for their anticancer and anti-proliferative properties. Several mechanisms, including cell cycle arrest, proliferation inhibition, activation of autophagy and apoptosis, inhibition of adhesion, metastasis, and angiogenesis have been proposed for their anticancer activity. EVs could be engineered as cannabinoid delivery systems for tumor-specificity leading to superior anticancer effects. This review discusses current techniques for EV isolation from various sources, characterization and strategies to load them with cannabinoids. More extensively, we culminate information available on different sources of EVs that have anticancer activity, mechanism of action of cannabinoids against various wild type and resistant tumors and role of CBD in histone modifications and cancer epigenetics. We have also enumerated the role of EVs containing cannabinoids against various tumors and in chemotherapy induced neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukhmandeep Kaur
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, 32307, USA
| | - Aakash Nathani
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, 32307, USA
| | - Mandip Singh
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, 32307, USA.
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11
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Yan C, Li Y, Liu H, Chen D, Wu J. Antitumor mechanism of cannabidiol hidden behind cancer hallmarks. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188905. [PMID: 37164234 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoids have been utilized for recreational and therapeutic purposes for over 4,000 years. As the primary ingredient in exogenous cannabinoids, Cannabidiol (CBD) has drawn a lot of interest from researchers due to its negligible psychotropic side effects and potential tumor-suppressing properties. However, the obscure mechanisms that underlie them remain a mystery. Complex biological mechanisms are involved in the progression of cancer, and malignancies have a variety of acquired biological capabilities, including sustained proliferation, death evasion, neovascularization, tissue invasion and metastasis, immune escape, metabolic reprogramming, induction of tumor-associated inflammation, cancerous stemness and genomic instability. Nowadays, the role of CBD hidden in these hallmarks is gradually revealed. Nevertheless, flaws or inconsistencies in the recent studies addressing the anti-cancer effects of CBD still exist. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the potential mechanisms underlying the role of CBD in a range of tumor-acquired biological capabilities. We propose potential drugs that may have a synergistic effect with CBD and provide optional directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaobiao Yan
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, China; Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment For Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Yu Li
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, China; Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment For Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Hanqing Liu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, China; Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment For Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Diyu Chen
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, China; Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment For Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Jian Wu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, China; Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment For Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
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12
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Pennant NM, Hinton CV. The evolution of cannabinoid receptors in cancer. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1602. [PMID: 36750231 PMCID: PMC10484301 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa (cannabis) has been used as a therapeutic treatment for centuries treating various diseases and disorders. However, racial propaganda led to the criminalization of cannabis in the 1930s preventing opportunities to explore marijuana in therapeutic development. The increase in recreational use of cannabis further grew concern about abuse, and lead to further restrictions and distribution of cannabis in the 1970s when it was declared to be a Schedule I drug in the USA. In the late 1990s in some states, legislation assisted in legalizing the use of cannabis for medical purposes under physician supervision. As it has been proven that cannabinoids and their receptors play an essential role in the regulation of the physiological and biological processes in our bodies. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is the complex that regulates the cell-signaling system consisting of endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), cannabinoid receptors, and the enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of the endocannabinoids. The ECS along with phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids serves to be a beneficial therapeutic target in treating diseases as they play roles in cell homeostasis, cell motility, inflammation, pain-sensation, mood, and memory. Cannabinoids have been shown to inhibit proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis and even restore homeostasis in a variety of models of cancer in vitro and in vivo. Cannabis and its receptors have evolved into a therapeutic treatment for cancers. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakea M Pennant
- Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Cimona V Hinton
- Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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13
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Disorders of cancer metabolism: The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 157:113993. [PMID: 36379120 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal energy metabolism, as one of the important hallmarks of cancer, was induced by multiple carcinogenic factors and tumor-specific microenvironments. It comprises aerobic glycolysis, de novo lipid biosynthesis, and glutamine-dependent anaplerosis. Considering that metabolic reprogramming provides various nutrients for tumor survival and development, it has been considered a potential target for cancer therapy. Cannabinoids have been shown to exhibit a variety of anticancer activities by unclear mechanisms. This paper first reviews the recent progress of related signaling pathways (reactive oxygen species (ROS), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1α), and p53) mediating the reprogramming of cancer metabolism (including glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism). Then we comprehensively explore the latest discoveries and possible mechanisms of the anticancer effects of cannabinoids through the regulation of the above-mentioned related signaling pathways, to provide new targets and insights for cancer prevention and treatment.
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Shalev N, Kendall M, Anil SM, Tiwari S, Peeri H, Kumar N, Belausov E, Vinayaka AC, Koltai H. Phytocannabinoid Compositions from Cannabis Act Synergistically with PARP1 Inhibitor against Ovarian Cancer Cells In Vitro and Affect the Wnt Signaling Pathway. Molecules 2022; 27:7523. [PMID: 36364346 PMCID: PMC9653955 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27217523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is the single most lethal gynecologic malignancy. Cannabis sativa is used to treat various medical conditions, and is cytotoxic to a variety of cancer types. We sought to examine the effectiveness of different combinations of cannabis compounds against OC. Cytotoxic activity was determined by XTT assay on HTB75 and HTB161 cell lines. Apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry. Gene expression was determined by quantitative PCR and protein localization by confocal microscopy. The two most active fractions, F5 and F7, from a high Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabis strain extract, and their standard mix (SM), showed cytotoxic activity against OC cells and induced cell apoptosis. The most effective phytocannabinoid combination was THC+cannabichromene (CBC)+cannabigerol (CBG). These fractions acted in synergy with niraparib, a PARP inhibitor, and were ~50-fold more cytotoxic to OC cells than to normal keratinocytes. The F7 and/or niraparib treatments altered Wnt pathway-related gene expression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype and β-catenin cellular localization. The niraparib+F7 treatment was also effective on an OC patient's cells. Given the fact that combinations of cannabis compounds and niraparib act in synergy and alter the Wnt signaling pathway, these phytocannabinoids should be examined as effective OC treatments in further pre-clinical studies and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurit Shalev
- The Mina and Everard Goodman, Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
- Institute of Plant Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | | | - Seegehalli M. Anil
- Institute of Plant Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Sudeep Tiwari
- Institute of Plant Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Hadar Peeri
- The Mina and Everard Goodman, Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
- Institute of Plant Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Navin Kumar
- Institute of Plant Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Eduard Belausov
- Institute of Plant Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Ajjampura C. Vinayaka
- Institute of Plant Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Hinanit Koltai
- Institute of Plant Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
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15
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Cherkasova V, Wang B, Gerasymchuk M, Fiselier A, Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. Use of Cannabis and Cannabinoids for Treatment of Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5142. [PMID: 36291926 PMCID: PMC9600568 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an ancient homeostasis mechanism operating from embryonic stages to adulthood. It controls the growth and development of many cells and cell lineages. Dysregulation of the components of the ECS may result in uncontrolled proliferation, adhesion, invasion, inhibition of apoptosis and increased vascularization, leading to the development of various malignancies. Cancer is the disease of uncontrolled cell division. In this review, we will discuss whether the changes to the ECS are a cause or a consequence of malignization and whether different tissues react differently to changes in the ECS. We will discuss the potential use of cannabinoids for treatment of cancer, focusing on primary outcome/care-tumor shrinkage and eradication, as well as secondary outcome/palliative care-improvement of life quality, including pain, appetite, sleep, and many more factors. Finally, we will complete this review with the chapter on sex- and gender-specific differences in ECS and response to cannabinoids, and equality of the access to treatments with cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoriia Cherkasova
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Marta Gerasymchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Anna Fiselier
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
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Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Effects of Cannabinoids: An Updated Review with Future Perspectives and Current Challenges. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15101228. [PMID: 36297340 PMCID: PMC9607911 DOI: 10.3390/ph15101228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of new antibiotics is urgently needed to combat the threat of bacterial resistance. New classes of compounds that have novel properties are urgently needed for the development of effective antimicrobial agents. The extract of Cannabis sativa L. has been used to treat multiple ailments since ancient times. Its bioactivity is largely attributed to the cannabinoids found in its plant. Researchers are currently searching for new anti-infective agents that can treat various infections. Although its phytocannabinoid ingredients have a wide range of medical benefits beyond the treatment of infections, they are primarily associated to psychotropic effects. Different cannabinoids have been demonstrated to be helpful against harmful bacteria, including Gram-positive bacteria. Moreover, combination therapy involving the use of different antibiotics has shown synergism and broad-spectrum activity. The purpose of this review is to gather current data on the actions of Cannabis sativa (C. sativa) extracts and its primary constituents such as terpenes and cannabinoids towards pathogens in order to determine their antimicrobial properties and cytotoxic effects together with current challenges and future perspectives in biomedical application.
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17
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Anti-Cancer Activity of Cannabis sativa Phytocannabinoids: Molecular Mechanisms and Potential in the Fight against Ovarian Cancer and Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174299. [PMID: 36077833 PMCID: PMC9454933 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy, with about 70% of cases diagnosed only at an advanced stage. Cannabis sativa, which produces more than 150 phytocannabinoids, is used worldwide to alleviate numerous symptoms associated with various medical conditions. Recently, studies across a range of cancer types have demonstrated that the phytocannabinoids Δ9-trans-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have anti-cancer activity in vitro and in vivo, but also the potential to increase other drugs’ adverse effects. THC and CBD act via several different biological and signaling pathways, including receptor-dependent and receptor-independent pathways. However, very few studies have examined the effectiveness of cannabis compounds against OC. Moreover, little is known about the effectiveness of cannabis compounds against cancer stem cells (CSCs) in general and OC stem cells (OCSCs) in particular. CSCs have been implicated in tumor initiation, progression, and invasion, as well as tumor recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance. Several hallmarks and concepts describe CSCs. OCSCs, too, are characterized by several markers and specific drug-resistance mechanisms. While there is no peer-reviewed information regarding the effect of cannabis and cannabis compounds on OCSC viability or development, cannabis compounds have been shown to affect genetic pathways and biological processes related to CSCs and OCSCs. Based on evidence from other cancer-type studies, the use of phytocannabinoid-based treatments to disrupt CSC homeostasis is suggested as a potential intervention to prevent chemotherapy resistance. The potential benefits of the combination of chemotherapy with phytocannabinoid treatment should be examined in ovarian cancer patients.
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Milián L, Monleón-Guinot I, Sancho-Tello M, Galbis JM, Cremades A, Almenar-Ordaz M, Peñaroja-Martinez J, Farras R, Martín de Llano JJ, Carda C, Mata M. In Vitro Effect of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol on Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Isolated from Lung Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126766. [PMID: 35743206 PMCID: PMC9223514 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There is evidence that demonstrates the effect of cannabinoid agonists inhibiting relevant aspects in lung cancer, such as proliferation or epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Most of these studies are based on evidence observed in in vitro models developed on cancer cell lines. These studies do not consider the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME). One of the main components of the TME is cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), cells that are relevant in the control of proliferation and metastasis in lung cancer. In this work, we evaluated the direct effects of two cannabinoid agonists, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), used alone or in combination, on CAFs and non-tumor normal fibroblasts (NFs) isolated from adenocarcinoma or from healthy lung tissue from the same patients. We observed that these compounds decrease cell density in vitro and inhibit the increase in the relative expression of type 1 collagen (COL1A1) and fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP1) induced by transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ). On the other hand, we studied whether THC and CBD could modulate the interactions between CAFs or NFs and cancer cells. We conditioned the culture medium with stromal cells treated or not with THC and/or CBD and cultured A549 cells with them. We found that culture media conditioned with CAFs or NFs increased cell density, induced morphological changes consistent with EMT, inhibited cadherin-1 (CDH1) gene expression, and induced an increase in the relative expression of cadherin-2 (CDH2) and vimentin (VIM) genes in A549 cells. These changes were inhibited or decreased by THC and CBD administered alone or in combination. In another series of experiments, we conditioned culture media with A549 cells treated or not with THC and/or CBD, in the presence or absence of TGFβ. We observed that culture media conditioned with A549 in the presence of TGFβ induced an increase in the expression of COL1A1 and VIM, both in CAFs and in non-tumor NFs. Both THC and CBD ameliorated these effects. In summary, the results presented here reinforce the usefulness of cannabinoid agonists for the treatment of some relevant aspects of lung cancer pathology, and demonstrate in a novel way their possible effects on CAFs as a result of their relationship with cancer cells. Likewise, the results reinforce the usefulness of the combined use of THC and CBD, which has important advantages in relation to the possibility of using lower doses, thus minimizing the psychoactive effects of THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Milián
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.); (I.M.-G.); (M.S.-T.); (M.A.-O.); (J.P.-M.); (J.J.M.d.L.); (C.C.)
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Irene Monleón-Guinot
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.); (I.M.-G.); (M.S.-T.); (M.A.-O.); (J.P.-M.); (J.J.M.d.L.); (C.C.)
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Sancho-Tello
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.); (I.M.-G.); (M.S.-T.); (M.A.-O.); (J.P.-M.); (J.J.M.d.L.); (C.C.)
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - María Almenar-Ordaz
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.); (I.M.-G.); (M.S.-T.); (M.A.-O.); (J.P.-M.); (J.J.M.d.L.); (C.C.)
| | - Josep Peñaroja-Martinez
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.); (I.M.-G.); (M.S.-T.); (M.A.-O.); (J.P.-M.); (J.J.M.d.L.); (C.C.)
| | - Rosa Farras
- Príncipe Felipe Research Center Foundation (CIPF), 46012 Valencia, Spain;
| | - José Javier Martín de Llano
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.); (I.M.-G.); (M.S.-T.); (M.A.-O.); (J.P.-M.); (J.J.M.d.L.); (C.C.)
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmen Carda
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.); (I.M.-G.); (M.S.-T.); (M.A.-O.); (J.P.-M.); (J.J.M.d.L.); (C.C.)
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Mata
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.M.); (I.M.-G.); (M.S.-T.); (M.A.-O.); (J.P.-M.); (J.J.M.d.L.); (C.C.)
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center of Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
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Valenti C, Billi M, Pancrazi GL, Calabria E, Armogida NG, Tortora G, Pagano S, Barnaba P, Marinucci L. Biological Effects of Cannabidiol on Human Cancer Cells: Systematic Review of the Literature. Pharmacol Res 2022; 181:106267. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Hinz B, Ramer R. Cannabinoids as anticancer drugs: current status of preclinical research. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:1-13. [PMID: 35277658 PMCID: PMC9276677 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01727-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractDrugs that target the endocannabinoid system are of interest as pharmacological options to combat cancer and to improve the life quality of cancer patients. From this perspective, cannabinoid compounds have been successfully tested as a systemic therapeutic option in a number of preclinical models over the past decades. As a result of these efforts, a large body of data suggests that the anticancer effects of cannabinoids are exerted at multiple levels of tumour progression via different signal transduction mechanisms. Accordingly, there is considerable evidence for cannabinoid-mediated inhibition of tumour cell proliferation, tumour invasion and metastasis, angiogenesis and chemoresistance, as well as induction of apoptosis and autophagy. Further studies showed that cannabinoids could be potential combination partners for established chemotherapeutic agents or other therapeutic interventions in cancer treatment. Research in recent years has yielded several compounds that exert promising effects on tumour cells and tissues in addition to the psychoactive Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, such as the non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid cannabidiol and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation. This review provides an up-to-date overview of the potential of cannabinoids as inhibitors of tumour growth and spread as demonstrated in preclinical studies.
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Jo MJ, Kim BG, Kim WY, Lee DH, Yun HK, Jeong S, Park SH, Kim BR, Kim JL, Kim DY, Lee SI, Oh SC. Cannabidiol Suppresses Angiogenesis and Stemness of Breast Cancer Cells by Downregulation of Hypoxia-Inducible Factors-1α. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225667. [PMID: 34830821 PMCID: PMC8616476 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cannabidiol (CBD), one of the compounds present in the marijuana plant, has antitumor properties. However, the effect of CBD on breast cancer remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of CBD for the angiogenesis and stemness of breast cancer cells by decreasing the expression of hypoxia-induced factor-1α (HIF-1α) through the Src/von Hippel–Lindau tumor suppressor protein (VHL) interaction. CBD can suppress angiogenesis and stem cell-like properties of breast cancer through Src/VHL/HIF-1α signaling. Abstract To assess the effect of Cannabidiol (CBD) on the angiogenesis and stemness of breast cancer cells as well as proliferation. Methods: mRNA level and the amount of protein of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were determined by qRT-PCR and ELISA. The angiogenic potential of breast cancer cells under hypoxic conditions was identified by the HUVEC tube formation assay. The degradation of HIF-1α by CBD and the Src/von Hippel–Lindau tumor suppressor protein (VHL) interaction were assessed by a co-immunoprecipitation assay and Western blotting. To identify the stemness of mamospheres, they were evaluated by the sphere-forming assay and flow cytometry. Results: CBD can suppress angiogenesis and stem cell-like properties of breast cancer through Src/VHL/HIF-1α signaling. CBD may potentially be utilized in the treatment of refractory or recurrent breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jee Jo
- Graduate School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 08308, Korea; (M.J.J.); (B.G.K.); (H.K.Y.); (S.H.P.); (D.Y.K.); (S.C.O.)
| | - Bu Gyeom Kim
- Graduate School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 08308, Korea; (M.J.J.); (B.G.K.); (H.K.Y.); (S.H.P.); (D.Y.K.); (S.C.O.)
| | - Woo Young Kim
- Department of Surgery, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea;
- Correspondence: (W.Y.K.); (D.-H.L.); Tel.: +82-2-2626-3078 (W.Y.K.); +82-33-640-2347 (D.-H.L.)
| | - Dae-Hee Lee
- Department of Marine Food Science and Technology, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangwon 25457, Korea
- Correspondence: (W.Y.K.); (D.-H.L.); Tel.: +82-2-2626-3078 (W.Y.K.); +82-33-640-2347 (D.-H.L.)
| | - Hye Kyeong Yun
- Graduate School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 08308, Korea; (M.J.J.); (B.G.K.); (H.K.Y.); (S.H.P.); (D.Y.K.); (S.C.O.)
| | - Soyeon Jeong
- Department of Oncology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea; (S.J.); (B.R.K.); (J.L.K.)
| | - Seong Hye Park
- Graduate School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 08308, Korea; (M.J.J.); (B.G.K.); (H.K.Y.); (S.H.P.); (D.Y.K.); (S.C.O.)
| | - Bo Ram Kim
- Department of Oncology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea; (S.J.); (B.R.K.); (J.L.K.)
| | - Jung Lim Kim
- Department of Oncology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea; (S.J.); (B.R.K.); (J.L.K.)
| | - Dae Yeong Kim
- Graduate School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 08308, Korea; (M.J.J.); (B.G.K.); (H.K.Y.); (S.H.P.); (D.Y.K.); (S.C.O.)
| | - Sun Il Lee
- Department of Surgery, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea;
| | - Sang Cheul Oh
- Graduate School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 08308, Korea; (M.J.J.); (B.G.K.); (H.K.Y.); (S.H.P.); (D.Y.K.); (S.C.O.)
- Department of Oncology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 08308, Korea; (S.J.); (B.R.K.); (J.L.K.)
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22
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Recent advances of cannabidiol studies in medicinal chemistry, pharmacology and therapeutics. Future Med Chem 2021; 13:1935-1937. [PMID: 34583522 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2021-0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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23
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Patel N, Kommineni N, Surapaneni SK, Kalvala A, Yaun X, Gebeyehu A, Arthur P, Duke LC, York SB, Bagde A, Meckes DG, Singh M. Cannabidiol loaded extracellular vesicles sensitize triple-negative breast cancer to doxorubicin in both in-vitro and in vivo models. Int J Pharm 2021; 607:120943. [PMID: 34324983 PMCID: PMC8528640 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) were isolated from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) and were further encapsulated with cannabidiol (CBD) through sonication method (CBD EVs). CBD EVs displayed an average particle size of 114.1 ± 1.02 nm, zeta potential of -30.26 ± 0.12 mV, entrapment efficiency of 92.3 ± 2.21% and stability for several months at 4 °C. CBD release from the EVs was observed as 50.74 ± 2.44% and 53.99 ± 1.4% at pH 6.8 and pH 7.4, respectively after 48 h. Our in-vitro studies demonstrated that CBD either alone or in EVs form significantly sensitized MDA-MB-231 cells to doxorubicin (DOX) (*P < 0.05). Flow cytometry and migration studies revealed that CBD EVs either alone or in combination with DOX induced G1 phase cell cycle arrest and decreased migration of MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. CBD EVs and DOX combination significantly reduced tumor burden (***P < 0.001) in MDA-MB-231 xenograft tumor model. Western blotting and immunocytochemical analysis demonstrated that CBD EVs and DOX combination decreased the expression of proteins involved in inflammation, metastasis and increased the expression of proteins involved in apoptosis. CBD EVs and DOX combination will have profound clinical significance in not only decreasing the side effects but also increasing the therapeutic efficacy of DOX in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilkumar Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Nagavendra Kommineni
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Sunil Kumar Surapaneni
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Anil Kalvala
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Xuegang Yaun
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA; The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Aragaw Gebeyehu
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Peggy Arthur
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Leanne C Duke
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University College of Medicine, 1115 West Call Street, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Sara B York
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University College of Medicine, 1115 West Call Street, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Arvind Bagde
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - David G Meckes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University College of Medicine, 1115 West Call Street, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Mandip Singh
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
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24
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Wojnarowicz PM, Escolano MG, Huang YH, Desai B, Chin Y, Shah R, Xu S, Yadav S, Yaklichkin S, Ouerfelli O, Soni RK, Philip J, Montrose DC, Healey JH, Rajasekhar VK, Garland WA, Ratiu J, Zhuang Y, Norton L, Rosen N, Hendrickson RC, Zhou XK, Iavarone A, Massague J, Dannenberg AJ, Lasorella A, Benezra R. Anti-tumor effects of an ID antagonist with no observed acquired resistance. NPJ Breast Cancer 2021; 7:58. [PMID: 34031428 PMCID: PMC8144414 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-021-00266-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
ID proteins are helix-loop-helix (HLH) transcriptional regulators frequently overexpressed in cancer. ID proteins inhibit basic-HLH transcription factors often blocking differentiation and sustaining proliferation. A small-molecule, AGX51, targets ID proteins for degradation and impairs ocular neovascularization in mouse models. Here we show that AGX51 treatment of cancer cell lines impairs cell growth and viability that results from an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production upon ID degradation. In mouse models, AGX51 treatment suppresses breast cancer colonization in the lung, regresses the growth of paclitaxel-resistant breast tumors when combined with paclitaxel and reduces tumor burden in sporadic colorectal neoplasia. Furthermore, in cells and mice, we fail to observe acquired resistance to AGX51 likely the result of the inability to mutate the binding pocket without loss of ID function and efficient degradation of the ID proteins. Thus, AGX51 is a first-in-class compound that antagonizes ID proteins, shows strong anti-tumor effects and may be further developed for the management of multiple cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina M Wojnarowicz
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marta Garcia Escolano
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yun-Han Huang
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell/Sloan Kettering/Rockefeller Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Gerstner Sloan Kettering Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Bina Desai
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yvette Chin
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Riddhi Shah
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sijia Xu
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Saurabh Yadav
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sergey Yaklichkin
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ouathek Ouerfelli
- Organic Synthesis Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rajesh Kumar Soni
- Proteomics & Microchemistry Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - John Philip
- Proteomics & Microchemistry Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - David C Montrose
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - John H Healey
- Orthopedics Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Jeremy Ratiu
- Department of Immunology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Yuan Zhuang
- Department of Immunology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Larry Norton
- Evelyn H. Lauder Breast Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Neal Rosen
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ronald C Hendrickson
- Proteomics & Microchemistry Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xi Kathy Zhou
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Antonio Iavarone
- Department of Neurology, Department of Pathology, Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joan Massague
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Anna Lasorella
- Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pathology, Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert Benezra
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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25
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Anti-Cancer Potential of Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and Flavonoids Present in Cannabis. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071985. [PMID: 32708138 PMCID: PMC7409346 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, and even more since its legalization in several jurisdictions, cannabis and the endocannabinoid system have received an increasing amount of interest related to their potential exploitation in clinical settings. Cannabinoids have been suggested and shown to be effective in the treatment of various conditions. In cancer, the endocannabinoid system is altered in numerous types of tumours and can relate to cancer prognosis and disease outcome. Additionally, cannabinoids display anticancer effects in several models by suppressing the proliferation, migration and/or invasion of cancer cells, as well as tumour angiogenesis. However, the therapeutic use of cannabinoids is currently limited to the treatment of symptoms and pain associated with chemotherapy, while their potential use as cytotoxic drugs in chemotherapy still requires validation in patients. Along with cannabinoids, cannabis contains several other compounds that have also been shown to exert anti-tumorigenic actions. The potential anti-cancer effects of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, present in cannabis, are explored in this literature review.
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