Targeting Astrocytomas and Invading Immune Cells with Cannabinoids: A Promising Therapeutic Avenue

Abstract

The last quarter century has borne witness to great advances in both the detection and treatment of numerous cancers. Even so, malignancies of the central nervous system, especially high-grade astrocytomas, continue to thwart our best efforts toward effective chemotherapeutic strategies. With prognosis remaining bleak, the time for serious consideration of alternative therapies has arrived. Various preparations of the marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa, and related synthetic and endogenous compounds, may constitute just such an alternative. Cannabinoids, although much maligned historically for their psychotropic effects and clear abuse potential, have long been used medicinally and are now staging an impressive comeback, as recent studies have begun to explore their powerful anti-tumoral properties. In this study, we review in vitro and in vivo evidence supporting the use of cannabinoids for treatment of brain tumors. We further propose the continued intense investigation of cannabinoid efficacies as novel anti-cancer agents, especially in models recapitulating such properties within the unique environment of the brain.

The Expression Level of CB1 and CB2 Receptors Determines Their Efficacy at Inducing Apoptosis in Astrocytomas

“…In fact, these data were so compelling that one clinical trial has already been carried-out, in which patients afflicted with recurrent astrocytomas (grade IV) were treated with cannabinoids stereotactically injected directly into the mass of the malignant tumors [9]. While there are clear results for the use of cannabinoids to treat astrocytomas, the requirement of cannabinoid receptors in mediating this therapeutic effect is still unproven [10]. In fact, evidence suggests that high concentrations of cannabinoids may induce biological effects, including the induction of apoptosis in cells, independently of CB 1 and CB 2 receptors [7], [11], [12], [13].…”

Traditional and complementary medicine used with curative intent in childhood cancer: A systematic review

“…and provenance of cannabinoids, with mixed results . Some preclinical data exist for cannabinoid induction of cell death in astrocytomas and leukemia, demonstrating inconsistent effects. At this juncture, N of 1 studies of cannabinoids focused on supportive care indications, with survival outcomes as secondary may be most indicated.…”

Potential, Limitations and Risks of Cannabis-Derived Products in Cancer Treatment

“…Thus, the overall effects of THC and CBD are brought about by a complex combination of mechanisms. While THC has affinity preferably for the CB1 receptor, resulting in its psychoactive effect, activation of CB2 via CBD results in immune modulation [ 29 ]. CBD is not psychoactive but may influence the psychoactive effects elicited by THC [ 30 , 31 , 32 ].…”