The Role of Cannabidiol in Liver Disease: A Systemic Review

Abstract

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid abundant in Cannabis sativa, has gained considerable attention for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. It exhibits the potential to prevent or slow the progression of various diseases, ranging from malignant tumors and viral infections to neurodegenerative disorders and ischemic diseases. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease, and viral hepatitis stand as prominent causes of morbidity and mortality in chronic liver diseases globally. The literature has substantiated CBD’s potential therapeutic effects across diverse liver diseases in in vivo and in vitro models. However, the precise mechanism of action remains elusive, and an absence of evidence hinders its translation into clinical practice. This comprehensive review emphasizes the wealth of data linking CBD to liver diseases. Importantly, we delve into a detailed discussion of the receptors through which CBD might exert its effects, including cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), transient receptor potential channels (TRPs), and their intricate connections with liver diseases. In conclusion, we address new questions that warrant further investigation in this evolving field.

The Use of Compounds Derived from Cannabis sativa in the Treatment of Epilepsy, Painful Conditions, and Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disorders

“…It has been associated with liver injury and can interfere with the efficacy of other medications [ 77 , 78 ]. CBD exhibits hepatoprotective effects by interacting with cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), and transient receptor potential channels (TRPs), thereby potentially reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in liver diseases [ 79 ]. Moreover, in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, THCV significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose and improved pancreatic β-cell function, adiponectin, and apolipoprotein A levels, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes [ 80 ].…”