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Exploring Cannabinoids: Molecular Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Applications

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Bioactives and Nutraceuticals".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 27 October 2025 | Viewed by 1355

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK
Interests: cannabis use; cannabinoid

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying cannabinoids' therapeutic effects, focusing on detailed mechanistic studies, proof-of-concept research, and comprehensive reviews of their clinical applications. Cannabinoids, particularly through their influence on the endocannabinoid system and other physiological pathways, have shown significant promise in treating diseases and enhancing overall human health.

Their effects on systemic modulation and symptom management have been documented in a growing body of research. Emerging evidence highlights the potential of cannabinoids for addressing a range of health conditions, with trials currently investigating their efficacy in treating epilepsy, psychosis, chronic pain, cancer-related symptoms, and neurodegenerative disorders, to name a few. This Special Issue welcomes submissions that provide rigorous experimental insights and theoretical frameworks, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of cannabinoids' potential in advancing healthcare.

Dr. Grace Blest Hopley
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • cannabinoids
  • endocannabinoid system
  • δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
  • cannabidiol (CBD)
  • inflammation
  • chronic pain
  • neurodegenerative disorders
  • epilepsy
  • psychosis
  • cancer-related symptoms

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Review

33 pages, 1463 KB  
Review
Molecular Mechanisms of the Endocannabinoid System with a Focus on Reproductive Physiology and the Cannabinoid Impact on Fertility
by Patrycja Kalak, Piotr Kupczyk, Antoni Szumny, Tomasz Gębarowski, Marcin Jasiak, Artur Niedźwiedź, Wojciech Niżański and Michał Dzięcioł
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7095; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157095 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1116
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex neuromodulatory network involved in maintaining physiological balance through interactions with various neurotransmitter and hormonal pathways. Its key components—cannabinoid receptors (CBRs)—are activated by endogenous ligands and exogenous cannabinoids such as those found in the Cannabis sativa plant. [...] Read more.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex neuromodulatory network involved in maintaining physiological balance through interactions with various neurotransmitter and hormonal pathways. Its key components—cannabinoid receptors (CBRs)—are activated by endogenous ligands and exogenous cannabinoids such as those found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Although cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) have garnered interest for their potential therapeutic effects, evidence regarding their safety, particularly for reproductive health, remains limited. This review summarizes the structure and molecular mechanisms of the ECS, its role in reproductive physiology—including its interactions with the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis (HPG axis), gametogenesis, implantation, and lactation—and the possible consequences of cannabinoid exposure for fertility. In addition, we focus on the involvement of the ECS and cannabinoids in breast cancer, highlighting emerging evidence on their dual role in tumor progression and therapy. These insights emphasize the need for further research to better define the therapeutic potential and risks associated with cannabinoid use in reproductive health and breast cancer. Full article
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