Phytochemical Constituents and Derivatives of Cannabis sativa; Bridging the Gap in Melanoma Treatment

Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Jan 3;24(1):859. doi: 10.3390/ijms24010859.

Abstract

Melanoma is deadly, physically impairing, and has ongoing treatment deficiencies. Current treatment regimens include surgery, targeted kinase inhibitors, immunotherapy, and combined approaches. Each of these treatments face pitfalls, with diminutive five-year survival in patients with advanced metastatic invasion of lymph and secondary organ tissues. Polyphenolic compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenoids, and flavonoids; both natural and synthetic, have emerging evidence of nutraceutical, cosmetic and pharmacological potential, including specific anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and palliative utility. Cannabis sativa is a wellspring of medicinal compounds whose direct and adjunctive application may offer considerable relief for melanoma suffers worldwide. This review aims to address the diverse applications of C. sativa's biocompounds in the scope of melanoma and suggest it as a strong candidate for ongoing pharmacological evaluation.

Keywords: CBD; Cannabis sativa; THC; anti-cancer; cannabinoids; flavonoids; inflammation; melanoma; terpenoids.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cannabinoids* / chemistry
  • Cannabinoids* / pharmacology
  • Cannabinoids* / therapeutic use
  • Cannabis* / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Melanoma* / drug therapy
  • Phytochemicals / pharmacology
  • Phytochemicals / therapeutic use
  • Terpenes / pharmacology

Substances

  • Cannabinoids
  • Terpenes
  • Phytochemicals