The endocannabinoid system (ECS), when truly understood, could become one of the most powerful tools in modern medicine, especially in tackling some of the world’s most difficult-to-treat diseases. This intelligent network of receptors, enzymes, and cannabinoids, along with its deep connection to other physiological systems opens up a world of groundbreaking therapeutic possibilities.
One of the most electrifying revelations is that the ECS plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of cancer, as well as in how cancer evades the body’s natural defence mechanisms. Unlocking the full potential of this system could finally crack the code to an age-old medical mystery that continues to claim millions of lives worldwide. Just imagine the future of cancer care shaped by this hidden powerhouse within us.
This possibility isn’t just theory; it’s backed by science. A paper published in Current Oncology Reports, researchers Skórzewska and Gęca explored the ECS as a promising target for cutting-edge cancer therapies. Their review highlights how cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid systems are becoming key players in transforming cancer treatment, backed by a growing body of compelling evidence.
The Connection Between the ECS and Cancer
Cancer cells exist in a unique community known as the “tumour microenvironment (TME)”. The tumour microenvironment (TME) is the area around a tumour comprising different cells, proteins, and blood vessels. It helps tumours grow, spread, and sometimes hide from the immune system. The TME is directly involved in promoting the activities of tumour cells and serves as the point of communication between cancer cells to support growth and spread.
A typical TME will consist of cellular and non-cellular components that influence cancer development, progression, and response to treatment. While the TME composition varies across different tumour types, certain consistent features may include tumour cells, stroma cells, immune cells, blood vessels, signalling molecules like cytokines, growth factors, and the extracellular matrix (ECM).
The ECS was recently reported to regulate biochemical pathways important for several types of cancer, including gastrointestinal, breast, and CNS tumours. Research primarily centered on in vitro studies shows how the direct activation or inhibition of cannabinoid receptors (CB) expressed in cancer cells impacts their growth dynamics and this may be an excellent target for reducing cancer progression and treating different types of cancer.
Role of the ECS in Cancer Microenvironment
The unique presence of ECS in tumour microenvironments has been reported to modulate the following activities;
1- Limiting Cell to Cell Signalling and Communication:
Cell-to-cell signaling is crucial for tumor growth and survival. It involves the exchange of chemical messages between cancer cells and other surrounding environments including immune cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. The messages are conveyed through molecules like cytokines, growth factors, and chemokines. These messages help the cancer cells suppress immune responses and support the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) which is needed for their survival. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) disrupts cell-to-cell signaling in the TME by influencing major signaling pathways controlling tumor cell survival (PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway), tumour cell division (MAPK/ERK pathway), regulating immune response and inflammation (NF-κB pathway), immune regulation (JAK/STAT pathway), cell proliferation and differentiation (Wnt/β-catenin pathway), and production of new blood vessels (VEGF pathway). By regulating these pathways, the ECS controls cancer cell death, inhibits cell proliferation, limits tumour growth, reduces inflammation, shifts the balance away from tumor-supportive conditions, and cuts off blood supply to the tumour.
2- Modulating Immune Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment
Cancer cells contain CB receptors, which are responsible for modulating immune responses. When endocannabinoids bind to these receptors, they can reduce the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promote an anti-inflammatory environment. The ECS also regulates immune cell proliferation and differentiation, potentially increasing the number of regulatory T cells (Tregs) that suppress immune responses and protect tumours. Additionally, the ECS affects cytokine release, immune cell migration into the TME, and the phagocytic activity of macrophages, which can impact their ability to destroy cancer cells.
Targeting the endocannabinoid system (ECS) with well-designed, cannabis-based formulations has the potential to significantly enhance its natural role in managing the tumor microenvironment. This approach is gaining momentum as researchers continue to uncover how the ECS can help disrupt the supportive network that allows cancer to grow and spread.
The cannabis plant itself is a treasure trove of therapeutic compounds. Its cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids each bring unique properties to the table. Together, these natural compounds have shown the ability to slow down the growth of cancer cells, reduce inflammation, and influence the signals that tumours use to thrive. By tapping into the full spectrum of the cannabis plant, we may be able to create targeted therapies that work with the body’s own systems to fight cancer more effectively and naturally.
Daniel Gana
Sports Cannabis Contributing Writer| Senior Content Writer BioSource Botanicals| Microbiologist| Cannabis Copywriter Writer and Content Strategist| Speaker at the 2022 Emerald Conference
Toronto, Ontario
Canada
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