Cannabis and Cancer: Cell Receptors Identified

It has been known for some time that cannabis has anti-cancer properties, but it has been unclear specifically what cannabinoid cell receptors are directly related to tumor shrinkage.

Scientists from the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom, in tandem with scientists from the Universidad Complutense de Madridin in Spain think they have pinpointed the specific cell receptors with which THC interacts.

Taking human breast cancer cells, the scientists induced tumors in mice, then targeted said tumors with doses of THC. In doing so they believe they have discerned two such cell receptors.

“Dr Peter McCormick, from UEA’s school of Pharmacy, said: “THC, the major active component of marijuana, has anti-cancer properties. This compound is known to act through a specific family of cell receptors called cannabinoid receptors. However, it was unclear which of these receptors were responsible for the anti-tumour effects of THC. We show that these effects are mediated via the joint interaction of CB2 and GPR55 — two members of the cannabinoid receptor family. Our findings help explain some of the well-known but still poorly understood effects of THC at low and high doses on tumour growth. There has been a great deal of interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms behind how marijuana, and specifically THC, influence cancer pathology. There has also been a drive in the pharmaceutical industry to create synthetic equivalents that might have anti-cancer properties. By identifying the receptors involved we have provided an important step towards the future development of therapeutics that can take advantage of the interactions we have discovered to reduce tumour growth.”

Dr. McCormick was quick to point out, however, that cancer patients should not self-medicate with cannabis and hopes his research will lead to a “safe synthetic” for future use.

I think this is some pretty amazing news, but I disagree with Dr. McCormick on his warning against self-medication. First of all, while I hope a synthetic can be created to help people in the future, it does no good to those who currently suffer from cancer and might very well benefit from self-medication. Secondly, if the actual, natural cannabis plant (which is already safe and effective) works to shrink tumors, do we really need a synthetic? I mean, I see it’s value for mass production or for use in people who can’t/won’t use cannabis, but why not let the currently ill people use the natural plant?

I am in no way meaning to knock Dr. McCormick or his research, it is incredible and encouraging that educated people are looking into cannabis as medicine and taking it seriously. Maybe more global universities doing this research will shame the US into allowing our own scientists to do the same.