A new study published in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience finds that THC could help reduce chronic neuroinflammation in people living with HIV by protecting brain-supporting cells known as astrocytes.

Researchers from the Louisiana Cancer Research Center and Tulane University School of Medicine tested the effects of THC in macaque models exposed to HIV-like proteins. They found that THC treatment shielded astrocytes from virus-induced senescence, promoted recovery from cellular damage, and encouraged healthier cell growth and morphology.

The cannabinoid also significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in a dose-dependent manner.

The findings indicate that THC may support brain health by suppressing harmful inflammation and fostering neuroprotective signaling.

“These findings suggest that THC may modulate neuroinflammation in PLWH by promoting astrocytic survival, suppressing inflammatory cytokine secretion, and enhancing neurotrophic signaling”, states the study. “However, prolonged exposure to high-dose THC may negatively impact glial survival. The results underscore the complexity of cannabinoid signaling in the CNS and highlight the potential of cannabinoid-based interventions to mitigate HIV-associated neuroinflammation.”