Anticancer Properties of Lesser-Known Cannabis Compounds Discovered

Cannabis, long associated primarily with recreational use, is gaining increasing attention from scientists investigating its potential medical applications, particularly its therapeutic and anticancer properties. Recent research published in the journal BioFactors highlights lesser-known cannabis compounds that could have promising anticancer effects, especially in the context of treating multiple myeloma (MM).

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New Research on Lesser-Known Cannabinoids and Anticancer Properties Against Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a malignant blood cancer that targets plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to uncontrolled growth. Although many treatment options are available, patients often become resistant to standard therapies, underscoring the urgent need for new, more effective therapeutic solutions. Multiple myeloma causes damage to bones, kidneys, and weakens the immune system, significantly reducing patients’ quality of life.

A team of researchers from the University of Camerino in Italy and the Canadian company Entourage Biosciences investigated the potential of lesser-known cannabinoids—such as CBG (cannabigerol), CBC (cannabichromene), CBN (cannabinol), and CBDV (cannabidivarin)—in combating multiple myeloma. The studies were conducted on both cell lines and animal models to accurately assess their anticancer effects.

Anticancer Study Findings

The research found that all four minor cannabinoids exhibited anticancer effects against multiple myeloma cells, indicating their potential to inhibit tumor growth. CBN and CBDV were found to be the most effective in reducing the viability of cancer cells, followed by CBG and CBC. These cannabinoids also induced cancer cell death and reduced both the invasion of MM cells and bone resorption, which is particularly important for patients with multiple myeloma, who often experience severe bone damage.

In mouse models, CBN demonstrated a significant reduction in tumor mass after three weeks of treatment, with no notable differences in body weight or internal organs between the treated and control groups. These results suggest that CBN may be a particularly promising anticancer candidate for further clinical trials.

These results are extremely promising, especially given the need for new anticancer treatment methods for multiple myeloma. The research opens doors for further exploration into the use of minor cannabinoids as potential anticancer agents. However, scientists emphasize the need for additional studies in human models to better understand the mechanisms of these compounds and their potential therapeutic applications.

Cannabis in Cancer Treatment

The history of anticancer cannabis research is long and complex. Many earlier studies focused on more well-known cannabinoids, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These compounds have shown potential in alleviating symptoms associated with cancer treatment, such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and depression. However, an increasing number of studies suggest their direct anticancer effects.

Historically, cannabinoid research has been primarily based on in vitro experiments, meaning they were conducted on isolated cancer cells rather than human models. While these results are promising, they require confirmation through clinical trials. A 2019 literature review indicated that different types of cancer cells may respond differently to various cannabis extracts.

Examples of Other Research and Grants

In recent years, funding for anticancer research into cannabis has significantly increased. For instance, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) awarded $3.2 million to study the impact of cannabis use during cancer immunotherapy and to investigate whether access to cannabis helps reduce health disparities. These studies may provide valuable data on the safety and efficacy of cannabis as an adjunct in cancer treatment.

Cannabis and Cognitive Function in Cancer Patients

Cannabis can induce psychoactive effects that may temporarily impair cognitive function. However, research from the University of Colorado has shown that patients using cannabis products from licensed state dispensaries reported improved mental clarity after two weeks of use. This is particularly important for cancer patients, who often struggle with reduced quality of life and require effective methods to alleviate disease symptoms and treatment side effects.

Conclusion

New research into the anticancer properties of minor cannabinoids opens new possibilities for treating multiple myeloma and other cancers. These findings are promising and highlight the need for further clinical studies to better understand the mechanisms of these compounds and their potential therapeutic uses. As science progresses, we can expect further breakthroughs in this field that may benefit patients facing various types of cancer. Cannabis, once primarily viewed as a recreational substance, may become a key element in modern oncology.

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(Featured image by National Cancer Institute via Unsplash)

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First published in Fakty Konopne, a third-party contributor translated and adapted the article from the original. In case of discrepancy, the original will prevail.

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