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Targeting Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Cancer Prevention and Treatment: The Role of Cannabis Compounds

The development and progression of cancer are associated with the dysregulation of multiple pathways involved in cell proliferation and survival, as well as dysfunction in redox balance, immune response, and inflammation. The master antioxidant pathway, known as the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, regulates the cellular defense against oxidative stress and inflammation, making it a promising cancer prevention and treatment target. Cannabinoids have demonstrated anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties, affecting signaling pathways, including Nrf2. Increased oxidative stress following exposure to anti-cancer therapy prompts cancer cells to activate antioxidant mechanisms. This indicates the dual effect of Nrf2 in cancer cells—influencing proliferation and apoptotic processes and protecting against the toxicity of anti-cancer therapy. Therefore, understanding the complex role of cannabinoids in modulating Nrf2 might shed light on its potential implementation as an anti-cancer support.

Highly purified cannabidiol in the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsies: A real-life impact on seizure frequency, quality of life, behavior, and sleep patterns from a single Italian center

Seizure frequency in treatment-resistant epilepsies seems to be decreased by cannabidiol (CBD), but contrasting data are available on its effect on sleep, behavior, and quality of life (QoL), and no data is reported on its effect on parental stress in patients with epilepsy (PWE). Thus, we conducted a retrospective study on a cohort of children and adults with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) who had been treated with highly purified, pharmaceutical-grade CBD to evaluate its effects on seizure frequency, QoL, behavior, parental stress, and sleep. Eighteen patients (12 adults and 6 children) were included in the cohort and followed for a median of 9 months.

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

It is easy to find success stories on the internet of patients with cancer who seem to benefit from using cannabis products. However, scientific substantiation is usually lacking. Therefore, there are critical questions among clinicians and other healthcare providers about the potential of cannabis products in cancer care. In this article, we aim to give direction for making choices about the responsible use of cannabis products in oncology by addressing the following questions: How does cannabis work? What is medicinal cannabis? What kind of cannabis products are in use? What is their legal status? Is there evidence for therapeutic effects in patients with cancer? What is the risk–benefit balance in terms of adverse effects, (potential) drug interactions, symptom management and antitumour activity? May cannabis products provide added value in the treatment of patients with cancer? We end up with an outlook and perspective determining the place of cannabis products in oncology.

Examining the role of cannabinoids on osteoporosis: a review

Prior research studies have shown that the endocannabinoid system, influenced by CBD and THC, plays a role in bone remodeling. As both the research on cannabis and use of cannabis continue to grow, novel medicinal uses of both its constituents as well as the whole plant are being discovered. This review examines the role of cannabinoids on osteoporosis, more specifically, the endocannabinoid system and its role in bone remodeling and the involvement of the cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 in bone health, as well as the effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and synthetic cannabinoids on bone.

Examining the role of cannabinoids on osteoporosis: a review

Prior research studies have shown that the endocannabinoid system, influenced by CBD and THC, plays a role in bone remodeling. As both the research on cannabis and use of cannabis continue to grow, novel medicinal uses of both its constituents as well as the whole plant are being discovered. This review examines the role of cannabinoids on osteoporosis, more specifically, the endocannabinoid system and its role in bone remodeling and the involvement of the cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 in bone health, as well as the effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and synthetic cannabinoids on bone.

The therapeutic role of Cannabidiol in mental health: a systematic review

The therapeutic application of cannabidiol (CBD) is gaining interest due to expanding evidence for its use.
Objective: To summarize the clinical outcomes, study designs and limitations for the use of CBD and nabiximols (whole plant extract from Cannabis sativa L. that has been purified into 1:1 ratio of CBD and delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol) in the treatment of psychiatric disorders.