Study proves effectiveness of cannabis combination against ovarian cancer

An international study has demonstrated that the combination of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has selective anticancer effects against ovarian cancer cell lines. Led by researchers from Khon Kaen University in Thailand, the research was published on December 15, 2025, in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology.

The investigation focused on two human cell lines and compared them with non-tumor ovarian epithelial cells. The results indicated that the combined treatment was effective in inducing programmed cell death (apoptosis) in ovarian cancer cells.

In addition, there was an interruption in the reproduction cycle of cancer cells. A crucial point observed was that the procedure did not cause significant damage to healthy cells, suggesting safety in application.

Synergy in combating ovarian cancer

One of the main findings of the study was the synergistic effect between the two cannabinoids. According to the data, the joint application of CBD and THC at equimolar concentrations yielded superior results compared to the isolated use of each substance against ovarian cancer.

Researchers observed that this combination reduced the phosphorylation of key proteins (PI3K, AKT, and mTOR), which act as "fuel" for the tumor. Simultaneously, there was an increase in the activity of the PTEN protein, known for its tumor suppression function.

As detailed in the article, "the combined treatment of CBD and THC effectively inhibited the growth and invasion of ovarian cancer cells via oncogenic signaling". Cytotoxicity tests reinforced that healthy cells showed greater resistance to treatment.

Blocking ovarian cancer metastasis

In addition to inducing the death of diseased cells, the study evaluated the ability of cannabinoids to prevent metastasis. Tests showed that the combination significantly suppressed the ability of ovarian cancer cells to move and invade other tissues.

The identified biological mechanism also involved an increase in the production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in the mitochondria. This leads to oxidative stress and depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, processes that culminate in the death of the tumor cell.

Methodology and future validation

To reach these conclusions about ovarian cancer, the team used various in vitro analysis methods. Cell viability assays, flow cytometry for cell cycle analysis, and Western blotting to examine signaling pathways were applied.

Although the laboratory results are promising, the authors emphasize the need for validation in living organisms. "These findings highlight that the combination may represent a promising targeted therapeutic approach, ensuring additional in vivo validation to elucidate its clinical potential," the text concludes.