A study published recently in the peer-reviewed journal Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology finds that cannabidiol (CBD), alone or combined with low-dose ionizing radiation (LDR), may help protect against brain and liver damage linked to hepatic encephalopathy (HE).
Hepatic encephalopathy, a condition stemming from severe liver dysfunction, can trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and cognitive decline. To test potential treatments, researchers from Egypt’s National Center for Radiation Research and Technology induced HE in rats using thioacetamide. The animals were then given CBD for seven days, LDR on two occasions, or a combination of both. The team evaluated oxidative stress, inflammation, liver function, neurotransmitter levels, cognitive performance, and tissue health.
The results showed that both CBD and LDR significantly reduced oxidative stress and inflammation by modulating pathways such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK).
Treated rats also had higher levels of serotonin, improved liver enzyme function, and better performance in memory tasks. Brain and liver tissue analysis confirmed reduced damage compared to untreated animals.
The findings indicate that CBD and LDR may offer protective benefits against HE-related brain and liver injury through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. While more research is needed, the study supports their potential as adjunct therapies for managing hepatic encephalopathy and related neuroinflammation.
More articles from The Marijuana Herald:
