Cannabinoids in Medicine: A Multifaceted Exploration of Types, Therapeutic Applications, and Emerging Opportunities in Neurodegenerative Diseases and Cancer Therapy

Abstract

In this review article, we embark on a thorough exploration of cannabinoids, compounds that have garnered considerable attention for their potential therapeutic applications. Initially, this article delves into the fundamental background of cannabinoids, emphasizing the role of endogenous cannabinoids in the human body and outlining their significance in studying neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Building on this foundation, this article categorizes cannabinoids into three main types: phytocannabinoids (plant-derived cannabinoids), endocannabinoids (naturally occurring in the body), and synthetic cannabinoids (laboratory-produced cannabinoids). The intricate mechanisms through which these compounds interact with cannabinoid receptors and signaling pathways are elucidated. A comprehensive overview of cannabinoid pharmacology follows, highlighting their absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, as well as their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Special emphasis is placed on the role of cannabinoids in neurodegenerative diseases, showcasing their potential benefits in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. The potential antitumor properties of cannabinoids are also investigated, exploring their potential therapeutic applications in cancer treatment and the mechanisms underlying their anticancer effects. Clinical aspects are thoroughly discussed, from the viability of cannabinoids as therapeutic agents to current clinical trials, safety considerations, and the adverse effects observed. This review culminates in a discussion of promising future research avenues and the broader implications for cannabinoid-based therapies, concluding with a reflection on the immense potential of cannabinoids in modern medicine.

Heterocyclic (pyrazine)carboxamide Ru(ii) complexes: structural, experimental and theoretical studies of interactions with biomolecules and cytotoxicity

“…Yield: 0.015 g (72%). 1 H NMR (400 MHz, DMSO) d 13.12 (s, 1H N-H ) 9.54 (dd, 3 J HH = 4.2, 1.1 Hz, 1H pyz ), 9.27 (d, 3 J HH = 1.0 Hz, 1H pyz ), 9.12 (d, 3 J HH = 3.0 Hz, 1H bz ), 7.75 (dd, 3 J HH = 3.2 Hz, 2H bz ), 7.45 (dd, 3 J HH = 3.0, 2.7 Hz, 2H bz ), 6.20 (d, 3 J HH = 6.0 Hz, 1H, cymene CH), 6.09 (d, 3 J HH = 6.0 Hz, 1H, cymene CH), 6.04 (d, 3 J HH = 6.0 Hz, 1H, cymene CH), 5.95 (d, J HH = 6.0 Hz, 1H, cymene CH 2 ), 2.63 (sept, 3 J HH = 7.2 Hz, 1H, CHMe 2 ), 2.24 (s, 3H, Me), 1.11 (d, 3H, CHMe 2 ), 1.01 (d, 3H, CHMe 2 ), 13 -(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)pyrazine-2carboxamide)Cl] (Ru2). Complex Ru2 was prepared following the procedure described for Ru1 using N-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl) pyrazine-2-carboxamide (L2 (0.01 g, 0.04 mmol) and dichloro(p-cymene)ruthenium(II) dimer (0.05 g, 0.08 mmol).…”

“…Yield: 0.018 g (84%). 1 H NMR (400 MHz, d 6 -DMSO): 9.53 (d, 1H pyz ), 9.18 (s, 3 J HH = 2.4 Hz, 1H pyz ), 8.99 (d, 1H pyz ), 7.90 (dd, 3 J HH = 7.8 Hz, 2H pyz ), 7.45 (dd, 3 J HH = 8.0 Hz, 1H bz ), 7.30 (d, 3 J HH = 7.6 Hz, 1H bz ), 5.81(d, 3 J HH = 6.0 Hz, 2H, cymene CH), 5.76 (d, 3 J HH = 6.0 Hz, 2H, cymene CH), 2.84 (sept, 3 J HH = 7.2 Hz, 1H, CHMe 2 ), 2.09 (s, 3H, Me), 1.21 (d, 6H, CHMe 2 ), 13 (5 mL) was added to a solution of RuCl 2 (PPh 3 ) 3 (0.05 g, 0.05 mmol) in CH 2 Cl 2 (5 mL) to give a light brown precipitate. The mixture was stirred for 4 h at room temperature and ltered to obtain a dark brown precipitate.…”

“…Since the discovery of cisplatin in cancer therapy, research into metal-based chemotherapeutic agents has gained momentum. [1][2][3][4] This endeavour is underpinned by the dual objectives of enhancing cytotoxicity against malignant cells, while concurrently striving to limit the side effects of these chemotherapeutic drugs. [5][6][7][8][9][10] Among the numerous classes of metal complexes being investigated for their potential cancer therapy, ruthenium(II) complexes have emerged as a popular choice for non-platinum(II) based drugs.…”

Cannabis and cancer: unveiling the potential of a green ally in breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer

“…Preclinical evidence has arisen in the last recent years about the effectiveness of cannabinoids in treating cancer. This evidence has been tested both in-vivo and in-vitro on both cell cultures and mice (Voicu et al 2023 ).…”

The synthetic cannabinoid 5-fluoro ABICA upregulates angiogenic markers and stimulates tube formation in human brain microvascular endothelial cells

“…Thus, SCs have stronger psychoactive effects and more severe adverse effects than THC. Although they are predominantly used recreationally, SCs have multifaceted effects on the human body 13 and are sought after for their effects including relaxation, social enhancement, and an enhanced sense of well-being. However, acute intoxication results in neurological disturbances.…”