Cannabichromene (CBC), a lesser-known cannabinoid found in marijuana, may offer therapeutic benefits for inflammatory skin conditions like atopic dermatitis (AD), according to new research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
The study, conducted by researchers at The Catholic University of Korea, investigated CBC’s impact on AD using a 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced BALB/c mouse model. CBC was topically administered in two doses: 0.1 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg.
Findings revealed significant improvements in skin lesion severity, ear and epithelial thickness, and reduced mast cell infiltration in the 0.1 mg/kg treatment group compared to the DNCB-only group.
Additionally, the study highlighted CBC’s ability to suppress Th2 cytokines and inflammatory mediators associated with AD. Real-time qRT-PCR analysis showed reduced mRNA expression of Th2 cytokines (TSLP, IL-4, IL-13) and other inflammatory markers (IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-18, and IL-33) (p < 0.05). Western blot analysis further confirmed reduced protein expression of JAK1, JAK2, STAT1, STAT2, STAT3, and STAT6 (p < 0.05), suggesting CBC effectively modulates the JAK/STAT pathway involved in AD pathogenesis.
“These results suggest that CBC is a promising candidate for the treatment of AD and demonstrates the potential to alleviate AD symptoms by suppressing the Th2 immune response”, concludes the study.
The study’s full text can be found by clicking here.
