Cannabis and its extracts have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential therapeutic effects, including in cancer treatment. Some studies suggest that certain cannabinoids found in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, may have anti-cancer properties by inhibiting tumor growth, inducing apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells, and reducing inflammation.
The scientific finding regarding the effectiveness of cannabis extracts, including specific formulations like PHEC-66, in treating cancer is whoing incredible potential results, although the research and studies are still evolving. While some preclinical studies and evidence suggest promising results, further research, including well-designed clinical trials, is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using cannabis extracts in cancer treatment.
The latest studies have found that the extract derived from the Cannabis sativa plant can inhibit the growth of melanoma cells and trigger cell death. Melanoma only accounts for around 6% of skin cancers in the world, but it’s the cause of more than 80% of skin cancer deaths.
This cancer is prone to metastasizing and has been shown to be highly resistant to traditional treatments. In a new study, researchers from Charles Darwin University (CDU) and Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) in Australia have developed a non-traditional treatment: a cannabis extract that stops melanoma cells from dividing and triggers the process of programmed cell death. The next step is to develop a targeted delivery system before moving on to pre-clinical trials and investigating whether the extract can be used to treat other types of cancers.
PHEC-66, a cannabis extract, is being studied for its effects on cancer, and the initial tests have shown it to be incredibly effective and hence it will likely undergo rigorous testing to evaluate its safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing before being considered as a viable treatment option.
As with any potential cancer treatment, it's important for individuals to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and to stay informed about the latest research developments in this field.
The latest studies on PHEC-66 has been ongoing for the past 4 years.
The preliminary results (first phase of the studies) have proven that potentially PHEC-66 can be quite effective, in fact, astonishingly useful to fight against skin cancer.
The effects of PHEC-66, a cannabis extract, have shown promise in the context of malignant melanoma. Researchers from Charles Darwin University and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) investigated the potential of using cannabinoid-derived compounds as treatments for this aggressive form of skin cancer 1.
Slowed Cell Growth: PHEC-66, extracted from Cannabis sativa, was found to slow down cell growth in melanoma cell lines.
Increased Cell Death (Apoptosis): The cannabis extract triggered apoptosis (programmed cell death) in melanoma cells. It increased the expression of proapoptotic markers while reducing the expression of antiapoptotic markers, ultimately leading to cell death.
Interaction with CB1 and CB2 Receptors: PHEC-66 interacted with CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system. This interaction likely contributed to its effects on melanoma cells.
Hindered Cell Cycle Progression: PHEC-66 inhibited the progression of cell growth and division, known as the cell cycle.
While more preclinical research is needed to fully understand the effect of PHEC-66 on melanoma, these findings suggest its potential as an adjuvant therapy for malignant melanoma. Researchers emphasize the importance of ongoing efforts to refine treatment techniques and ensure effective use of these agents at target sites 1.
They found that PHEC-66 impeded the growth of all melanoma cell lines by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors. They also found that PHEC-66 inhibited the progression of the cell cycle, the series of events that takes place as a cell grows and divides. The sub-G1 and G1 phases were particularly affected; the G1 phase is when the cell prepares to divide by copying all of its DNA. In addition, the researchers observed that PHEC-66 influenced metabolic pathways by causing an accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the melanoma cells, pushing them towards pro-apoptotic signaling pathways, while diminishing anti-apoptotic ones.
Please note that further studies and clinical trials are necessary to validate these initial findings and explore the full therapeutic potential of PHEC-66 in cancer treatment.
