Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Its Derivatives

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Biomedicines biomedicines	3.9	5.2	2013	14.6 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Journal of Clinical Medicine jcm	3.0	5.7	2012	16 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Molecules molecules	4.2	7.4	1996	15.1 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Pharmaceutics pharmaceutics	4.9	7.9	2009	15.5 Days	CHF 2900	Submit
Scientia Pharmaceutica scipharm	2.3	4.6	1930	26.1 Days	CHF 1000	Submit
International Journal of Molecular Sciences ijms	4.9	8.1	2000	16.8 Days	CHF 2900	Submit

12 pages, 1398 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) for the Binding Kinetics Analysis of Synthetic Cannabinoids: Advancing CB1 Receptor Interaction Studies

by Xuesong Shi, Lixin Kuai, Deli Xu, Yanling Qiao, Yuanyuan Chen, Bin Di and Peng Xu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(8), 3692; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26083692 - 14 Apr 2025

Viewed by 184

Abstract

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), a class of widely abused new psychoactive substances, are characterized by their structural diversity and rapid evolution. Structure–affinity relationships are crucial for predicting pharmacological effects and potential toxicity. Traditional methods for affinity testing are often complex and less applicable to [...] Read more.

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), a class of widely abused new psychoactive substances, are characterized by their structural diversity and rapid evolution. Structure–affinity relationships are crucial for predicting pharmacological effects and potential toxicity. Traditional methods for affinity testing are often complex and less applicable to newly modified compounds. In contrast, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) is a sensitive and label-free technology that detects molecular interactions by measuring refractive index changes on a metallic surface with the advantages of high sensitivity, low sample consumption, and high-throughput capability. In this study, we used SPR to determine the receptor affinity constants of 10 SCs, including some first-reported substances, and analyzed their structure–affinity relationships to validate the method’s reliability. The results showed that (1) indazole-based SCs exhibited stronger CB1 receptor affinity compared to their indole counterparts, (2) the head structure of p-fluorophenyl enhanced affinity relative to 5-fluoropentyl, (3) and the affinity rankings obtained from SPR experiments were consistent with those derived from traditional methods. These results collectively demonstrate the reliability and effectiveness of SPR in assessing CB1 receptor affinity and differentiating affinity differences among structurally similar analogs, with promising application prospects in drug research, particularly in the development and screening of therapeutic agents targeting cannabinoid receptors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Its Derivatives)

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32 pages, 1799 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Overview of the Potential for Pharmacokinetic Interactions Between Drugs and Cannabis Products in Humans

by Dolly Andrea Caicedo, Clara Pérez-Mañá, Magí Farré and Esther Papaseit

Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(3), 319; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17030319 - 1 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2745

Abstract

Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance worldwide. Recent years have seen an increase in cannabis consumption, and with new approvals and therapeutic indications, there are challenges in minimizing the risks and interactions between cannabis-based products, cannabis prescription drugs, other approved prescription [...] Read more.

Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance worldwide. Recent years have seen an increase in cannabis consumption, and with new approvals and therapeutic indications, there are challenges in minimizing the risks and interactions between cannabis-based products, cannabis prescription drugs, other approved prescription drugs, and other substances of abuse. Thus, identifying the enzymes metabolizing cannabinoid drugs and their relationship with other prescription drugs is crucial for understanding the potential interactions and effects of their simultaneous use. This article offers a comprehensive review of cannabis and the pharmacokinetic interactions between cannabis products, cannabis prescription drugs, and other approved prescription drugs, as well as other substances of abuse. It also compiles existing evidence of these interactions and describes the clinical outcomes associated with the inhibition or induction of various enzymes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Its Derivatives)

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19 pages, 2064 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Quantitative Analysis of Propofol Dosage in Cannabis Users: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Maxwell B. Baker, Dhanesh D. Binda, Ala Nozari, Joseph M. Kennedy, Erin Dienes and William E. Baker

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(3), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14030858 - 28 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1245

Abstract

Background: Rising cannabis use poses significant challenges in the administration of general anesthetics, particularly propofol, due to potential alterations in pharmacodynamics caused by tetrahydrocannabinol and its interactions with central nervous system receptors. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to consolidate the existing [...] Read more.

Background: Rising cannabis use poses significant challenges in the administration of general anesthetics, particularly propofol, due to potential alterations in pharmacodynamics caused by tetrahydrocannabinol and its interactions with central nervous system receptors. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to consolidate the existing literature to quantify propofol requirements in cannabis users, highlighting the complex relationship between cannabis use and anesthetic management. Methods: A systematic search of English-language literature was conducted to identify studies with data on propofol dosing in adult cannabis users. Propofol requirements were defined as the total intraoperative dose needed to achieve and maintain adequate sedation or anesthesia, assessed using parameters like monitoring and procedural tolerance. A random-effects model was used with DerSimonian–Laird estimations for pooled effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity was assessed using I² and Cochran’s Q statistics, and sensitivity analysis was conducted by grouping publications by design, size, and quality. Results: Eight qualified studies were identified with 2268 patients included. Patients who used cannabis were typically younger and more likely to smoke tobacco than non-users. Propofol requirements were significantly higher in cannabis users, who required an average additional dose of 47.33 mg compared to non-users. Subgroup analyses revealed that cannabis users undergoing general anesthesia needed an additional 30.57 mg intraoperatively, while those undergoing sedation for endoscopic procedures required an additional 53.02 mg. Conclusions: These results underscore the need for personalized anesthetic plans to accommodate physiological variations in cannabis users. However, the lack of standardized definitions for propofol requirements and the heterogeneity across studies necessitate caution in interpretation. The observed increase in propofol requirements suggests altered central nervous system sensitivities and receptor changes in cannabis users, emphasizing the need for further research to establish clear definitions, elucidate underlying mechanisms, and refine clinical guidelines for anesthetic management in this population. Full article

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25 pages, 2189 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interaction Between Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors and Cannabidiol in the Gut of Chickens Applied to Different Challenge Conditions

by Dominika Szkopek, Marta Mendel, Misza Kinsner, Bartosz Fotschki, Jerzy Juśkiewicz, Krzysztof Kozłowski, Paulius Matusevičius and Paweł Konieczka

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(21), 11398; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252111398 - 23 Oct 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1242

Abstract

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are important targets for cannabidiol (CBD), which mediate many of its biological actions. The hypothesis of the present research assumed that PPARs affect the gut response to different challenge factors in chickens (C. perfringens vs. lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from [...] Read more.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are important targets for cannabidiol (CBD), which mediate many of its biological actions. The hypothesis of the present research assumed that PPARs affect the gut response to different challenge factors in chickens (C. perfringens vs. lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from E. coli), and that CBD can mediate the pathways of this response. The study proved that CBD and the challenge factors significantly affect the expression level of PPARα (p = 0.001) and selected genes determining gut barrier function. A positive correlation was demonstrated between PPARs and genes involved in the formation of tight junctions, immune, and oxidative stress responses in chickens. Dietary supplementation with CBD actively mediated the expression rate of PPARs, but the mechanism of interaction between CBD and PPARs was different depending on the stress factor used. The addition of CBD to the birds’ diets did not contribute to reducing intestinal permeability under induced stress conditions nor cause stress, as indicated by the absence of elevated blood cortisol and endotoxin levels. CBD also supported the mechanisms of protecting intestinal cells from the cytotoxic effects in a C. perfringens challenge through the levels of genes involved in oxidative stress. This study indicates the importance of research toward understanding the mechanisms of PPARs as a target for enhancing intestinal barrier function, provides new results on the biological action of CBD in chickens, and shows a constant PPAR association with the jejunum mucosa of birds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Its Derivatives)

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18 pages, 2428 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cannabigerol Reduces Acute and Chronic Hypernociception in Animals Exposed to Prenatal Hypoxia-Ischemia

by Bismarck Rezende, Kethely Lima Marques, Filipe Eloi Alves de Carvalho, Vitória Macario de Simas Gonçalves, Barbara Conceição Costa Azeredo de Oliveira, Gabriela Guedes Nascimento, Yure Bazilio dos Santos, Fernanda Antunes, Penha Cristina Barradas, Fabrícia Lima Fontes-Dantas and Guilherme Carneiro Montes

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(3), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92030053 - 23 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2146

Abstract

Cannabigerol (CBG), a phytocannabinoid, has shown promise in pain management. Previous studies by our research group identified an increase in pain sensitivity as a consequence of prenatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI) in an animal model. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of CBG in [...] Read more.

Cannabigerol (CBG), a phytocannabinoid, has shown promise in pain management. Previous studies by our research group identified an increase in pain sensitivity as a consequence of prenatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI) in an animal model. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of CBG in acute and chronic hyperalgesia induced by prenatal HI. A pharmacological screening was first conducted using hot plate and open-field tests to evaluate the antinociceptive and locomotor activities of animals administered with a 50 mg/kg oral dose of cannabis extract with a high CBG content. Prenatal HI was induced in pregnant rats, and the offspring were used to evaluate the acute antinociceptive effect of CBG in the formalin-induced peripheral pain model, while chronic antinociceptive effects were observed through spinal nerve ligation (SNL) surgery, a model used to induce neuropathic pain. Our results show that CBG exhibited an antinociceptive effect in the hot plate test without affecting the animals’ motor function in the open-field test. CBG significantly reduced formalin-induced reactivity in HI offspring during both the neurogenic and inflammatory phases. CBG treatment alleviated thermal and mechanical hypernociception induced by SNL. Biomolecular analysis revealed CBG’s ability to modulate expression, particularly reducing TNFα and Nav1.7 in HI male and female rats, respectively. These results highlight CBG as a potential antinociceptive agent in acute and chronic pain models, suggesting it as a promising therapeutic option without inducing motor impairment. Further research is needed to fully elucidate its mechanisms and clinical applications in pain management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Its Derivatives)

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24 pages, 6382 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Formulation and Physicochemical Characterization of Terpenocannabinoid-Functionalized Hemp Oil Emulsifier: Assessment of Topical Anti-Inflammatory, Antinociceptive, Wound Healing Activity and Cutaneous Toxicity Effects

by Amira Metouekel, Hind Zejli, Mohamed Chebaibi, Youssra Lefrioui, Dalila Bousta, Hamid El Amri, Elmostafa El Fahime, Saïd El Kazzouli and Nabil El Brahmi

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92030036 - 21 Jun 2024

Viewed by 2692

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive study on the formulation and physicochemical characterization of a novel terpenocannabinoid-functionalized hemp oil emulsifier (AMCana-Oil) for potential applications in topical anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and wound healing treatments. The emulsifier exhibits interesting properties, meets international acidity index requirements, and has [...] Read more.

This article presents a comprehensive study on the formulation and physicochemical characterization of a novel terpenocannabinoid-functionalized hemp oil emulsifier (AMCana-Oil) for potential applications in topical anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and wound healing treatments. The emulsifier exhibits interesting properties, meets international acidity index requirements, and has a room temperature density comparable to liquid oils. The prepared emulsifier (AMCana-Oil), AMCana-Oil (10% TC) and AMCana-Oil (20% TC), contains a diverse array of cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), alongside bioactive compounds such as benzenepropanoic acid and oleamide. Physicochemical properties of AMCana-Oil and MCana-Oil (20% TC) were found, respectively, as follows: density value of 0.9872 ± 0.001 mg/mL: g/cm³ and 0.9882 ± 0.002 mg/mL: g/cm³; an acidity index of 1.599 ± 0.002 mgKOH/g and 1.605 ± 0.001 mgKOH/g; an average peroxide value encompassing a range from 12.982 ± 0.351 to 23.320 ± 0.681 (mEq O₂/kg), and a K of 1.575 ± 0.004 and 1.535 ± 0.0039, which underscore the fluidity, stability, and quality of emulsifiers studied. Preliminary pharmacological examinations reveal significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and wound healing potentials. Moreover, in silico predictions confirm the safety profile of the prepared emulsifiers. These findings emphasize the multifaceted nature of the terpenocannabinoid-functionalized emulsifier, paving the way for its potential applications in topical formulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Its Derivatives)

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23 pages, 2590 KiB

Open AccessReview

Possible Role of Cannabis in the Management of Neuroinflammation in Patients with Post-COVID Condition

by Noemi Cárdenas-Rodríguez, Iván Ignacio-Mejía, Jose Correa-Basurto, Humberto Carrasco-Vargas, Marco Antonio Vargas-Hernández, Exal Manuel Albores-Méndez, Rodolfo David Mayen-Quinto, Reynita De La Paz-Valente and Cindy Bandala

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3805; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073805 - 29 Mar 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6168

Abstract

The post-COVID condition (PCC) is a pathology stemming from COVID-19, and studying its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial. Neuroinflammation causes the most common manifestations of this disease including headaches, fatigue, insomnia, depression, anxiety, among others. Currently, there are no specific management proposals; [...] Read more.

The post-COVID condition (PCC) is a pathology stemming from COVID-19, and studying its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial. Neuroinflammation causes the most common manifestations of this disease including headaches, fatigue, insomnia, depression, anxiety, among others. Currently, there are no specific management proposals; however, given that the inflammatory component involves cytokines and free radicals, these conditions must be treated to reduce the current symptoms and provide neuroprotection to reduce the risk of a long-term neurodegenerative disease. It has been shown that cannabis has compounds with immunomodulatory and antioxidant functions in other pathologies. Therefore, exploring this approach could provide a viable therapeutic option for PCC, which is the purpose of this review. This review involved an exhaustive search in specialized databases including PubMed, PubChem, ProQuest, EBSCO, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials. Phytocannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), and Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), exhibit significant antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to be an effective treatment for neuroinflammatory conditions. These compounds could be promising adjuvants for PCC alone or in combination with other antioxidants or therapies. PCC presents significant challenges to neurological health, and neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play central roles in its pathogenesis. Antioxidant therapy and cannabinoid-based approaches represent promising areas of research and treatment for mitigating adverse effects, but further studies are needed. Full article

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18 pages, 1210 KiB

Open AccessReview

Cannabinoids and the Endocannabinoid System in Early SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Long COVID-19—A Scoping Review

by Cassidy Scott, Stefan Hall, Juan Zhou and Christian Lehmann

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(1), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13010227 - 30 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 16967

Abstract

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The clinical presentation of COVID-19 is variable, often including symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, fatigue, and an altered sense of smell and taste. Recently, post-acute “long” COVID-19 has emerged [...] Read more.

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The clinical presentation of COVID-19 is variable, often including symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, fatigue, and an altered sense of smell and taste. Recently, post-acute “long” COVID-19 has emerged as a concern, with symptoms persisting beyond the acute infection. Vaccinations remain one of the most effective preventative methods against severe COVID-19 outcomes and the development of long-term COVID-19. However, individuals with underlying health conditions may not mount an adequate protective response to COVID-19 vaccines, increasing the likelihood of severe symptoms, hospitalization, and the development of long-term COVID-19 in high-risk populations. This review explores the potential therapeutic role of cannabinoids in limiting the susceptibility and severity of infection, both pre- and post-SARS-CoV-19 infection. Early in the SARS-CoV-19 infection, cannabinoids have been shown to prevent viral entry, mitigate oxidative stress, and alleviate the associated cytokine storm. Post-SARS-CoV-2 infection, cannabinoids have shown promise in treating symptoms associated with post-acute long COVID-19, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress injury, insomnia, pain, and decreased appetite. While current research primarily focuses on potential treatments for the acute phase of COVID-19, there is a gap in research addressing therapeutics for the early and post-infectious phases. This review highlights the potential for future research to bridge this gap by investigating cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system as a potential treatment strategy for both early and post-SARS-CoV-19 infection. Full article

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14 pages, 2183 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Robust and Efficient FRET-Based Assay for Cannabinoid Receptor Ligands Discovery

by Gemma Navarro, Eddy Sotelo, Iu Raïch, María Isabel Loza, Jose Brea and Maria Majellaro

Molecules 2023, 28(24), 8107; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28248107 - 15 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1780

Abstract

The identification of new modulators for Cannabinoid Receptors (CBRs) has garnered significant attention in drug discovery over recent years, owing to their manifold pathophysiological implications. In the context of hit identification, the availability of robust and sensitive high-throughput screening assays is essential to [...] Read more.

The identification of new modulators for Cannabinoid Receptors (CBRs) has garnered significant attention in drug discovery over recent years, owing to their manifold pathophysiological implications. In the context of hit identification, the availability of robust and sensitive high-throughput screening assays is essential to enhance the likelihood of success. In this study, we present the development and validation of a Tag-lite^® binding assay designed for screening hCB₁/hCB₂ binding, employing a dual fluorescent ligand, CELT-335. Representative ligands for CBRs, exhibiting diverse affinity and functional profiles, were utilized as reference compounds to validate the robustness and efficiency of the newly developed Tag-lite^® binding assay protocol. The homogeneous format, coupled with the sensitivity and optimal performance of the fluorescent ligand CELT-335, establishes this assay as a viable and reliable method for screening in hit and lead identification campaigns. Full article

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19 pages, 957 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Use of Cannabidiol in Metabolic Syndrome—An Opportunity to Improve the Patient’s Health or Much Ado about Nothing?

by Michał Wiciński, Anna Fajkiel-Madajczyk, Zuzanna Kurant, Karol Gryczka, Dominik Kurant, Monika Szambelan, Bartosz Malinowski, Michal Falkowski, Jan Zabrzyński and Maciej Słupski

J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(14), 4620; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12144620 - 11 Jul 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3044

Abstract

Cannabis-derived therapies are gaining popularity in the medical world. More and more perfect forms of cannabinoids are sought, which could be used in the treatment of many common diseases, including metabolic syndrome, whose occurrence is also increasing. The purpose of this review was [...] Read more.

Cannabis-derived therapies are gaining popularity in the medical world. More and more perfect forms of cannabinoids are sought, which could be used in the treatment of many common diseases, including metabolic syndrome, whose occurrence is also increasing. The purpose of this review was to investigate the usefulness of cannabinoids, mainly cannabidiol (CBD), in individuals with obesity, impaired glucose and lipid metabolism, high blood pressure, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We summarised the most recent research on the broad topic of cannabis-derived influence on metabolic syndrome components. Since there is a lot of work on the effects of Δ9-THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) on metabolism and far less on cannabidiol, we felt it needed to be sorted out and summarised in this review. The research results on the use of cannabidiol in obesity are contraindicatory. When it comes to glucose homeostasis, it appears that CBD maintains it, sensitises adipose tissue to insulin, and reduces fasting glucose levels, so it seems to be a potential target in this kind of metabolic disorder, but some research results are inconclusive. CBD shows some promising results in the treatment of various lipid disorders. Some studies have proven its positive effect by decreasing LDL and increasing HDL as well. Despite their probable efficacy, CBD and its derivatives will likely remain an adjunctive treatment rather than a mainstay of therapy. Studies have also shown that CBD in patients with hypertension has positive effects, even though the hypotensive properties of cannabidiol are small. However, CBD can be used to prevent blood pressure surges, stabilise them, and have a protective effect on blood vessels. Results from preclinical studies have shown that the effect of cannabidiol on NAFLD may be potentially beneficial in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome and its components. Nevertheless, there is limited data on CBD and NAFLD in human studies. Because of the numerous confounding factors, the conclusions are unclear, and more research in this field is required. Full article

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20 pages, 14945 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Antibacterial Effect of Cannabigerol toward Streptococcus mutans Is Influenced by the Autoinducers 21-CSP and AI-2

by Muna Aqawi, Ronit Vogt Sionov, Michael Friedman and Doron Steinberg

Biomedicines 2023, 11(3), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11030668 - 22 Feb 2023

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3233

Abstract

Bacteria can communicate through an intercellular signaling system referred to as quorum sensing (QS). The QS system involves the production of autoinducers that interact with their respective receptors, leading to the induction of specific signal transduction pathways. The QS systems of the oral [...] Read more.

Bacteria can communicate through an intercellular signaling system referred to as quorum sensing (QS). The QS system involves the production of autoinducers that interact with their respective receptors, leading to the induction of specific signal transduction pathways. The QS systems of the oral cariogenic Streptococcus mutans regulate the maturation of biofilms and affect its virulent properties. We have previously shown that the non-psychoactive compound cannabigerol (CBG) of the Cannabis sativa L. plant has anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities towards S. mutans. Here we were interested in investigating the effect of the two QS systems ComCDE and LuxS on the susceptibility of S. mutans to CBG and the anti-QS activities of CBG. This was assessed by using various comCDE and luxS mutant strains and complementation with the respective autoinducers, competence stimulating peptide (CSP) and (S)-4,5-dihydroxy-2,3-pentandione (DPD, pre-AI-2). We found that S. mutans comCDE knockout strains were more sensitive to the anti-bacterial actions of CBG compared to the WT strain. Exogenously added 21-CSP prevented the anti-bacterial actions caused by CBG on the ΔcomC, ΔcomE and ΔluxS mutants, while having no effect on the susceptibility of the WT and ΔcomCDE strains to CBG. Exogenously added DPD increased the susceptibility of WT and ΔluxS to CBG. Vice versa, CBG significantly reduced the 21-CSP-induced expression of comCDE genes and ComE-regulated genes and suppressed the expression of luxS with concomitant reduction in AI-2 production. DPD induced the expression of comCDE genes and ComE-regulated genes, and this induction was repressed by CBG. 21-CSP alone had no significant effect on luxS gene expression, while ΔcomCDE strains showed reduced AI-2 production. In conclusion, our study shows that the susceptibility of S. mutans to CBG is affected by the ComCDE and LuxS QS pathways, and CBG is a potential anti-QS compound for S. mutans. Additionally, we provide evidence for crosstalk between the ComCDE and LuxS QS systems. Full article

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28 pages, 1797 KiB

Open AccessReview

Clinical Research Evidence Supporting Administration and Dosing Recommendations of Medicinal Cannabis as Analgesic in Cancer Patients

by Catalina Christensen, Morten Allesø, Martin Rose and Claus Cornett

J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(1), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12010307 - 30 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5769

Abstract

The analgesic potential of Cannabis sativa L.—based medicinal cannabis products for treatment of cancer associated chronic pains has gained increased interest in recent years. To ensure a controlled distribution of these products and investigate their therapeutic potential, several countries have established so-called pilot [...] Read more.

The analgesic potential of Cannabis sativa L.—based medicinal cannabis products for treatment of cancer associated chronic pains has gained increased interest in recent years. To ensure a controlled distribution of these products and investigate their therapeutic potential, several countries have established so-called pilot trials. Many doctors, however, are hesitant to prescribe medicinal cannabis primarily due to lack of research evidence regarding the products’ efficacy, safety and thus questionable dosing guidelines. This review aims to elucidate clinical research supporting administration of medicinal cannabis in cancer patients for analgesic purposes. The cannabinoids’ effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and its implication in pain regulation is included to illustrate the complexity related to this research field. Published clinical studies on medicinal cannabis primarily consist of observational studies and only one pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT), where more RCTs exist on the cannabis-based product, Sativex^® (GW Pharma Ltd., Cambridge, UK). The studies indicate analgesic potential, however non-significantly, for most patients and with acceptable safety profile. Summarizing, high-quality RCTs are scarce in this research field, and the limitations of the observational studies complicates interpretation of clinical outcomes. Despite discrepancy among the studies, they do show indications for administration and dosing regimens providing analgesic effects for some cancer patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Its Derivatives)

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