Bladder Cancer: scientific study investigates anticancer potential of cannabis compounds

Researchers identified that extracts of Cannabis sativa with high levels of cannabichromene (CBC) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) demonstrated activity against bladder cancer cells. In laboratory tests, the compounds reduced the viability of tumor cells, inhibited their migration capacity, and induced cell death, including in human tissue samples. 

The results are part of a study published in the Asian Journal of Urology, which evaluated the anticancer potential of three commercial strains of the plant — PARIS, Dairy Queen (DQ), and Super Cannabidiol (sCBD) — in urothelial carcinoma models, the most common type of the disease. 

Prior to the assays, researchers mapped the composition of the extracts through analytical techniques to identify the phytocannabinoids present in each strain and then analyzed the effects of these substances on the survival of tumor cells over time.

The results showed that all tested strains reduced the viability of bladder cancer cells. DQ and sCBD strains showed the most significant effects after 48 hours of exposure, indicating consistent cytotoxic action. The PARIS strain also demonstrated a significant reduction in cell survival, although with a slightly lower response.

In addition, extracts from DQ and sCBD strains reduced the migration of tumor cells, a process associated with disease progression, and interfered with the cell cycle, limiting the ability of these cells to multiply.

Results were also observed in human tissues

To deepen the analysis, the study included tests on human tumor tissue cultures obtained from bladder cancer patients. In these samples, Cannabis sativa extracts induced cell death and activated genes linked to apoptosis, the natural mechanism by which the body eliminates damaged or diseased cells.

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According to the authors, the data obtained in both cells cultured in the laboratory and in human tissues indicate that Cannabis sativa strains rich in CBC and THC have relevant activity against urothelial carcinoma. The researchers emphasize that the results expand the understanding of the therapeutic potential of these compounds and may contribute to the development of future preclinical and clinical research focused on bladder cancer treatment.