The endocannabinoid system is a dynamic, complex system within the body that plays a role in regulating major physiological processes such as sleep, mood, appetite, immune function, and cognition; yet the multifaceted functions of this system appear to be widely underappreciated and even unknown to many.
The human body produces endogenous cannabinoid molecules that act on cannabinoid receptors found on cell surfaces. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the central nervous system, impacting neurological function and cognitive processes, while CB2 receptors are mainly found in the peripheral nervous system and play a large role in regulating immune function. These receptors, in addition to others, not only respond to endogenous cannabinoids, but also to exogenous cannabinoids that are produced by the cannabis plant.
The effects of exogenous cannabinoids on biological processes and physiological function is a continuing area of research, and findings have led to the use of these molecules as part of treatment regimens for a variety of conditions including cancer. The cannabis plant produces various types of cannabinoids, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) being two of the most common. Each cannabinoid can produce a different effect within the body when acting on human endocannabinoid receptors, such as stimulating feelings of euphoria, reducing pain, or enhancing cognitive processing. More specifically, CBD has been seen to act on TRPV1 receptors, resulting in the reduction of pain sensations, and thus may provide benefit for patients with neuropathic pain, IBD, and dermatological pruritic conditions. Studies that have specifically looked at the effect of exogenous cannabinoids in cancer patients have shown the potential of these molecules to alleviate common symptoms of nausea, pain, and appetite loss.
More recent research has focused on the potential of cannabinoids to inhibit tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis, while also inducing cancer cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. In this way, the role of exogenous cannabinoids in cancer biology may extend beyond its effects of ameliorating symptoms within patients to also having implications in halting the development and progression of the disease itself. Furthermore, dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system has been linked to cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, autoimmune conditions, epilepsy, and schizophrenia.
Current standard cancer treatments typically consist of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy; however, including the use of cannabinoids as an adjunctive therapy may benefit patients' quality of life and prognosis; thus, it may be something patients wish to discuss with their treating physician. As science continues to investigate the effects of exogenous cannabinoid molecules on human biological processes, it is promising that potential new treatments will become available and more personalized care plans will be offered to patients with cancer and other chronic conditions.