A study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences reports that a cannabis extract reduced cell growth, promoted apoptosis, and limited invasive behavior in two human breast cancer cell lines.
The research was conducted by scientists from the University of Yaoundé I, the Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, and the University of the Free State, and focused on uncovering the molecular pathways behind the extract’s anti-proliferative effects. Using MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells, researchers evaluated how the cannabis-derived extract influenced oxidative stress, programmed cell death, and markers linked to tumor invasion, while also comparing effects against normal human skin fibroblasts.
Results showed that the extract caused significant cancer cell death in a concentration-dependent manner. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration was measured at 75.46 µg/mL for MDA-MB-231 cells and 78.68 µg/mL for MCF-7 cells. Treatment led to reduced levels of antioxidant defenses, including superoxide dismutase and glutathione, alongside increased activation of p53 and caspase-8 and caspase-9, indicating apoptosis was actively engaged.
The study also found that the extract suppressed cellular migration and invasion. This was associated with decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinases MMP-1 and MMP-9, as well as lower levels of transforming growth factor beta, all of which are commonly linked to cancer spread. Phytochemical analysis identified terpenoids and steroids in the extract, including cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid.
Researchers concluded that the extract’s effects appear to operate through interconnected pathways involving oxidative stress modulation, apoptotic signaling, and reduced invasive potential. While the findings are limited to cell-based models, the authors say the results support further preclinical and clinical investigation into cannabis-derived compounds for breast cancer treatment.
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