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Najafi L, Moasses Z, Bahmanpour S. The marijuana, cannabinoids, and female reproductive system. J Appl Toxicol 2024. [PMID: 38754862 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The marijuana is considered as widely used recreational illicit drug that has become popular among women of reproductive age. It is believed that the marijuana use may have negative impacts on the female fertility. However, the exact mechanisms of its reproductive toxicity remain unclear. The studies suggest that the exogenous cannabinoids may interfere with endocannabinoid system and disrupt hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis. Consequently, it impacts the female fertility by disruption of normal secretion of ovarian sex hormones and menstrual cycles. However, other studies have shown that medical marijuana is useful analgesic agent for pain management. But, given that the wide range of cannabinoids side effects are reported, it seems that caution should be taken in the recreational use of these substances. In summary, this article aimed to review the possible impacts of marijuana and its derivatives on the main female reproductive organs and embryonic growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Najafi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zia Moasses
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Soghra Bahmanpour
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Prateeksha P, Sharma VK, Singh SM, Sharma M, Diwan D, Hesham AEL, Guleria S, Nguyen QD, Gupta VK, Singh BN. Tetrahydrocannabinols: potential cannabimimetic agents for cancer therapy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:823-845. [PMID: 36696005 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10078-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Tetrahydrocannabinols (THCs) antagonize the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, whose signaling to the endocannabinoid system is essential for controlling cell survival and proliferation as well as psychoactive effects. Most tumor cells express a much higher level of CB1 and CB2; THCs have been investigated as potential cancer therapeutic due to their cannabimimetic properties. To date, THCs have been prescribed as palliative medicine to cancer patients but not as an anticancer modality. Growing evidence of preclinical research demonstrates that THCs reduce tumor progression by stimulating apoptosis and autophagy and inhibiting two significant hallmarks of cancer pathogenesis: metastasis and angiogenesis. However, the degree of their anticancer effects depends on the origin of the tumor site, the expression of cannabinoid receptors on tumor cells, and the dosages and types of THC. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on the molecular processes that THCs target for their anticancer effects. It also emphasizes the substantial knowledge gaps that should be of concern in future studies. We also discuss the therapeutic effects of THCs and the problems that will need to be addressed in the future. Clarifying unanswered queries is a prerequisite to translating the THCs into an effective anticancer regime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prateeksha Prateeksha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, 79410, USA
| | - Vivek K Sharma
- Herbal Nanobiotechnology Lab, Pharmacology Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, 226001, India
| | - Shiv M Singh
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Minaxi Sharma
- Haute Ecole Provinciale de Hainaut-Condorcet, Rue de la Sucrerie, 7800, Mons, ATH, Belgium
| | - Deepti Diwan
- Washington University, School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63108, USA
| | - Abd El-Latif Hesham
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62521, Egypt
| | - Sanjay Guleria
- Natural Product-cum-Nano Lab, Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, Main Campus Chatha, Jammu and Kashmir, 180009, India
| | - Quang D Nguyen
- Department of Bioengineering and Alcoholic Drink Technology, Institute of Food Science and Technology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Ménesi út 45, Budapest, H-1118, Hungary
| | - Vijai K Gupta
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Center, SRUC, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3JG, UK
- Center for Safe and Improved Food, SRUC, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3JG, UK
| | - Brahma N Singh
- Herbal Nanobiotechnology Lab, Pharmacology Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, 226001, India.
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Moar K, Pant A, Saini V, Maurya PK. Potential biomarkers in endometrial cancer: a narrative review. Biomarkers 2023:1-14. [PMID: 36755526 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2023.2179114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Every year, approximately 0.4 million women suffer from endometrial cancer (EC) worldwide and it has become the most common gynecological malignancy. Almost 66% of EC cases are diagnosed at an early stage and can be cured by performing surgery while those at an advanced stage turns out to be fatal. Biomarkers of endometrial cancer would be very valuable for screening of women who are at high risk and in detecting the chance of recurrence of disease. OBJECTIVE The current article has reviewed studies published on expression of biomarkers and susceptibility to EC. METHODS Google Scholar and PubMed were used as searching platforms and we have majorly considered the literature from last 10 years. RESULTS Potential biomarkers of EC identified from various studies were summarised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kareena Moar
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, India
| | - Anuja Pant
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, India
| | - Vikas Saini
- Biomedical Sciences, Department of Vocational Studies and Skill Development, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, India
| | - Pawan Kumar Maurya
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, India
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Boyacıoğlu Ö, Korkusuz P. Cannabinoids as Prospective Anti-Cancer Drugs: Mechanism of Action in Healthy and Cancer Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1410:145-169. [PMID: 36396926 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2022_748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids modulate many physiological and pathological processes by binding classical cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) or 2 (CB2) or non-cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoids are known to exert antiproliferative, apoptotic, anti-migratory and anti-invasive effect on cancer cells by inducing or inhibiting various signaling cascades. In this chapter, we specifically emphasize the latest research works about the alterations in endocannabinoid system (ECS) components in malignancies and cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, autophagy, and death by cannabinoid administration, emphasizing their mechanism of action, and give a future perspective for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özge Boyacıoğlu
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Atılım University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Petek Korkusuz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
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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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Iozzo M, Sgrignani G, Comito G, Chiarugi P, Giannoni E. Endocannabinoid System and Tumour Microenvironment: New Intertwined Connections for Anticancer Approaches. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123396. [PMID: 34943903 PMCID: PMC8699381 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumour microenvironment (TME) is now recognised as a hallmark of cancer, since tumour:stroma crosstalk supports the key steps of tumour growth and progression. The dynamic co-evolution of the tumour and stromal compartments may alter the surrounding microenvironment, including the composition in metabolites and signalling mediators. A growing number of evidence reports the involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in cancer. ECS is composed by a complex network of ligands, receptors, and enzymes, which act in synergy and contribute to several physiological but also pathological processes. Several in vitro and in vivo evidence show that ECS deregulation in cancer cells affects proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and metastatic potential. Although it is still an evolving research, recent experimental evidence also suggests that ECS can modulate the functional behaviour of several components of the TME, above all the immune cells, endothelial cells and stromal components. However, the role of ECS in the tumour:stroma interplay remains unclear and research in this area is particularly intriguing. This review aims to shed light on the latest relevant findings of the tumour response to ECS modulation, encouraging a more in-depth analysis in this field. Novel discoveries could be promising for novel anti-tumour approaches, targeting the microenvironmental components and the supportive tumour:stroma crosstalk, thereby hindering tumour development.
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Ramer R, Wittig F, Hinz B. The Endocannabinoid System as a Pharmacological Target for New Cancer Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225701. [PMID: 34830856 PMCID: PMC8616499 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cannabinoids have been shown to suppress tumour cell proliferation, tumour invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, chemoresistance and epithelial-mesenchymal transition and to induce tumour cell apoptosis, autophagy and immune response. This review focuses on the current status of investigations on the impact of inhibitors of endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes on tumour growth and spread in preclinical oncology research. Abstract Despite the long history of cannabinoid use for medicinal and ritual purposes, an endogenous system of cannabinoid-controlled receptors, as well as their ligands and the enzymes that synthesise and degrade them, was only discovered in the 1990s. Since then, the endocannabinoid system has attracted widespread scientific interest regarding new pharmacological targets in cancer treatment among other reasons. Meanwhile, extensive preclinical studies have shown that cannabinoids have an inhibitory effect on tumour cell proliferation, tumour invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, chemoresistance and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and induce tumour cell apoptosis and autophagy as well as immune response. Appropriate cannabinoid compounds could moreover be useful for cancer patients as potential combination partners with other chemotherapeutic agents to increase their efficacy while reducing unwanted side effects. In addition to the direct activation of cannabinoid receptors through the exogenous application of corresponding agonists, another strategy is to activate these receptors by increasing the endocannabinoid levels at the corresponding pathological hotspots. Indeed, a number of studies accordingly showed an inhibitory effect of blockers of the endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) on tumour development and spread. This review summarises the relevant preclinical studies with FAAH and MAGL inhibitors compared to studies with cannabinoids and provides an overview of the regulation of the endocannabinoid system in cancer.
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Mangal N, Erridge S, Habib N, Sadanandam A, Reebye V, Sodergren MH. Cannabinoids in the landscape of cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2021; 147:2507-2534. [PMID: 34259916 PMCID: PMC8310855 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-021-03710-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabinoids are a group of terpenophenolic compounds derived from the Cannabis sativa L. plant. There is a growing body of evidence from cell culture and animal studies in support of cannabinoids possessing anticancer properties. METHOD A database search of peer reviewed articles published in English as full texts between January 1970 and April 2021 in Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PubMed and Web of Science was undertaken. References of relevant literature were searched to identify additional studies to construct a narrative literature review of oncological effects of cannabinoids in pre-clinical and clinical studies in various cancer types. RESULTS Phyto-, endogenous and synthetic cannabinoids demonstrated antitumour effects both in vitro and in vivo. However, these effects are dependent on cancer type, the concentration and preparation of the cannabinoid and the abundance of receptor targets. The mechanism of action of synthetic cannabinoids, (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) has mainly been described via the traditional cannabinoid receptors; CB1 and CB2, but reports have also indicated evidence of activity through GPR55, TRPM8 and other ion channels including TRPA1, TRPV1 and TRPV2. CONCLUSION Cannabinoids have shown to be efficacious both as a single agent and in combination with antineoplastic drugs. These effects have occurred through various receptors and ligands and modulation of signalling pathways involved in hallmarks of cancer pathology. There is a need for further studies to characterise its mode of action at the molecular level and to delineate efficacious dosage and route of administration in addition to synergistic regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagina Mangal
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK
- Systems and Precision Cancer Medicine Team, Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Simon Erridge
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | - Nagy Habib
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | - Anguraj Sadanandam
- Systems and Precision Cancer Medicine Team, Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Vikash Reebye
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | - Mikael Hans Sodergren
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK.
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Mathew B, Harilal S, Musa A, Kumar R, Parambi DGT, Jose J, Uddin MS, Shah MA, Behl T, Unnikrishnan MK. An Agathokakological Tale of Δ 9-THC: Exploration of Possible Biological Targets. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 22:823-834. [PMID: 33001012 DOI: 10.2174/1389450121666201001123515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the active phytocannabinoid in cannabis, is virtually an adjunct to the endogenous endocannabinoid signaling system. By interacting with G-proteincoupled receptors CB1 and CB2, Δ9-THC affects peripheral and central circulation by lowering sympathetic activity, altering gene expression, cell proliferation, and differentiation, decreasing leukocyte migration, modulating neurotransmitter release, thereby modulating cardiovascular functioning, tumorigenesis, immune responses, behavioral and locomotory activities. Δ9-THC effectively suppresses chemotherapy-induced vomiting, retards malignant tumor growth, inhibits metastasis, and promotes apoptosis. Other mechanisms involved are targeting cell cycle at the G2-M phase in human breast cancer, downregulation of E2F transcription factor 1 (E2F1) in human glioblastoma multiforme, and stimulation of ER stress-induced autophagy. Δ9-THC also plays a role in ameliorating neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity, neuroplasticity, trauma, and stroke and is associated with reliving childhood epilepsy, brain trauma, and neurodegenerative diseases. Δ9-THC via CB1 receptors affects nociception, emotion, memory, and reduces neuronal excitability and excitotoxicity in epilepsy. It also increases renal blood flow, reduces intraocular pressure via a sympathetic pathway, and modulates hormonal release, thereby decreasing the reproductive function and increasing glucose metabolism. Versatile medical marijuana has stimulated abundant research demonstrating substantial therapeutic promise, suggesting the possibilities of first-in-class drugs in diverse therapeutic segments. This review represents the current pharmacological status of the phytocannabinoid, Δ9-THC, and synthetic analogs in cancer, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijo Mathew
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Sciences Campus, Kochi-682 041, India
| | - Seetha Harilal
- Department of Pharmacy, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Arafa Musa
- Department of Pharmacogonosy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al Jouf, 2014, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Department of Pharmacy, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Della Grace Thomas Parambi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al Jouf, 2014, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jobin Jose
- Department of Pharmaceutics, NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, NITTE Deemed to be University, Manglore, 575018, India
| | - Md Sahab Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Muhammad Ajmal Shah
- Department of Pharmacogonosy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Tapan Behl
- Department of Pharmacology, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
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Taylor AH, Tortolani D, Ayakannu T, Konje JC, Maccarrone M. (Endo)Cannabinoids and Gynaecological Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 13:E37. [PMID: 33375539 PMCID: PMC7795647 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13010037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gynaecological cancers can be primary neoplasms, originating either from the reproductive tract or the products of conception, or secondary neoplasms, representative of metastatic disease. For some of these cancers, the exact causes are unknown; however, it is recognised that the precise aetiopathogeneses for most are multifactorial and include exogenous (such as diet) and endogenous factors (such as genetic predisposition), which mutually interact in a complex manner. One factor that has been recognised to be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of gynaecological cancers is the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS consists of endocannabinoids (bioactive lipids), their receptors, and metabolic enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation. In this review, the impact of plant-derived (Cannabis species) cannabinoids and endocannabinoids on gynaecological cancers will be discussed within the context of the complexity of the proteins that bind, transport, and metabolise these compounds in reproductive and other tissues. In particular, the potential of endocannabinoids, their receptors, and metabolic enzymes as biomarkers of specific cancers, such as those of the endometrium, will be addressed. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of targeting selected elements of the ECS as new action points for the development of innovative drugs will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony H. Taylor
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.H.T.); (T.A.)
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Daniel Tortolani
- European Centre for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00164 Rome, Italy;
| | - Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.H.T.); (T.A.)
- Gynaecology Oncology Cancer Centre, Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool Women’s Hospital, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GB, UK
| | - Justin C. Konje
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.H.T.); (T.A.)
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Centre for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00164 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
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Schoeman R, Beukes N, Frost C. Cannabinoid Combination Induces Cytoplasmic Vacuolation in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25204682. [PMID: 33066359 PMCID: PMC7587381 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25204682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the synergistic anti-cancer potential of cannabinoid combinations across the MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 human breast cancer cell lines. Cannabinoids were combined and their synergistic interactions were evaluated using median effect analysis. The most promising cannabinoid combination (C6) consisted of tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabidiol (CBD), and displayed favorable dose reduction indices and limited cytotoxicity against the non-cancerous breast cell line, MCF-10A. C6 exerted its effects in the MCF-7 cell line by inducing cell cycle arrest in the G2 phase, followed by the induction of apoptosis. Morphological observations indicated the induction of cytoplasmic vacuolation, with further investigation suggesting that the vacuole membrane was derived from the endoplasmic reticulum. In addition, lipid accumulation, increased lysosome size, and significant increases in the endoplasmic reticulum chaperone protein glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) expression were also observed. The selectivity and ability of cannabinoids to halt cancer cell proliferation via pathways resembling apoptosis, autophagy, and paraptosis shows promise for cannabinoid use in standardized breast cancer treatment.
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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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Milian L, Mata M, Alcacer J, Oliver M, Sancho-Tello M, Martín de Llano JJ, Camps C, Galbis J, Carretero J, Carda C. Cannabinoid receptor expression in non-small cell lung cancer. Effectiveness of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol inhibiting cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in vitro. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228909. [PMID: 32049991 PMCID: PMC7015420 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective Patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) develop resistance to antitumor agents by mechanisms that involve the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). This necessitates the development of new complementary drugs, e.g., cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) agonists including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). The combined use of THC and CBD confers greater benefits, as CBD enhances the effects of THC and reduces its psychotropic activity. We assessed the relationship between the expression levels of CB1 and CB2 to the clinical features of a cohort of patients with NSCLC, and the effect of THC and CBD (individually and in combination) on proliferation, EMT and migration in vitro in A549, H460 and H1792 lung cancer cell lines. Methods Expression levels of CB1, CB2, EGFR, CDH1, CDH2 and VIM were evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. THC and CBD (10–100 μM), individually or in combination (1:1 ratio), were used for in vitro assays. Cell proliferation was determined by BrdU incorporation assay. Morphological changes in the cells were visualized by phase-contrast and fluorescence microscopy. Migration was studied by scratch recolonization induced by 20 ng/ml epidermal growth factor (EGF). Results The tumor samples were classified according to the level of expression of CB1, CB2, or both. Patients with high expression levels of CB1, CB2, and CB1/CB2 showed increased survival reaching significance for CB1 and CB1/CB2 (p = 0.035 and 0.025, respectively). Both cannabinoid agonists inhibited the proliferation and expression of EGFR in lung cancer cells, and CBD potentiated the effect of THC. THC and CBD alone or in combination restored the epithelial phenotype, as evidenced by increased expression of CDH1 and reduced expression of CDH2 and VIM, as well as by fluorescence analysis of cellular cytoskeleton. Finally, both cannabinoids reduced the in vitro migration of the three lung cancer cells lines used. Conclusions The expression levels of CB1 and CB2 have a potential use as markers of survival in patients with NSCLC. THC and CBD inhibited the proliferation and expression of EGFR in the lung cancer cells studied. Finally, the THC/CBD combination restored the epithelial phenotype in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Milian
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Research Institute of the University Clinical Hospital of Valencia (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
| | - Manuel Mata
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Research Institute of the University Clinical Hospital of Valencia (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERER), ISCIII, Carretera Soller Bunyola, Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
| | | | - María Oliver
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - María Sancho-Tello
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Research Institute of the University Clinical Hospital of Valencia (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
| | - José Javier Martín de Llano
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Research Institute of the University Clinical Hospital of Valencia (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Camps
- University General Hospital of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - José Galbis
- Alzira Hospital, Carretera de Corbera, Alzira, Valencia, Spain
| | - Julian Carretero
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmen Carda
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Research Institute of the University Clinical Hospital of Valencia (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
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Morales P, Jagerovic N. Antitumor Cannabinoid Chemotypes: Structural Insights. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:621. [PMID: 31214034 PMCID: PMC6555086 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has long been known to limit or prevent nausea and vomiting, lack of appetite, and pain. For this reason, cannabinoids have been successfully used in the treatment of some of the unwanted side effects caused by cancer chemotherapy. Besides their palliative effects, research from the past two decades has demonstrated their promising potential as antitumor agents in a wide variety of tumors. Cannabinoids of endogenous, phytogenic, and synthetic nature have been shown to impact the proliferation of cancer through the modulation of different proteins involved in the endocannabinoid system such as the G protein-coupled receptors CB1, CB2, and GRP55, the ionotropic receptor TRPV1, or the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). In this article, we aim to structurally classify the antitumor cannabinoid chemotypes described so far according to their targets and types of cancer. In a drug discovery approach, their in silico pharmacokinetic profile has been evaluated in order to identify appropriate drug-like profiles, which should be taken into account for further progress toward the clinic. This analysis may provide structural insights into the selection of specific cannabinoid scaffolds for the development of antitumor drugs for the treatment of particular types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Morales
- Instituto de Quimica Medica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nadine Jagerovic
- Instituto de Quimica Medica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Madrid, Spain
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Luschnig P, Schicho R. Cannabinoids in Gynecological Diseases. Med Cannabis Cannabinoids 2019; 2:14-21. [PMID: 34676329 DOI: 10.1159/000499164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a multifunctional homeostatic system involved in many physiological and pathological conditions. The ligands of the ECS are the endo-cannabinoids, whose actions are mimicked by exogenous cannabinoids, such as phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids. Responses to the ligands of the ECS are mediated by numerous receptors like the classical cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) as well as ECS-related receptors, e.g., G protein-coupled receptors 18 and 55 (GPR18 and GPR55), transient receptor potential ion channels, and nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. The ECS regulates almost all levels of female reproduction, starting with oocyte production through to parturition. Dysregulation of the ECS is associated with the development of gynecological disorders from fertility disorders to cancer. Cannabinoids that act at the ECS as specific agonists or antagonists may potentially influence dysregulation and, therefore, represent new therapeutic options for the therapy of gynecological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Luschnig
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Rudolf Schicho
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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