Effect of Cannabidiol on Cyclooxygenase Type 1 and 2 Expression and Function in Human Neutrophils

Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2023 Dec;8(6):999-1007. doi: 10.1089/can.2022.0008. Epub 2022 Aug 5.

Abstract

Introduction: In this study, the effects of the cannabinoid CBD were assessed on cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 expression and activity in resting and activated human neutrophils (polymorphonuclear [PMN] leukocytes). Methods: COX expression was measured at the mRNA levels, whereas COX activity was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay measurement of prostaglandin (PG)E2. In vitro experiments in a standard commercial acellular assay of COX-1/COX-2 activity completed the study. Results: Results show that CBD profoundly inhibits expression of COX-1 and COX-2 mRNA in activated PMN, however, without any significant consequences for PGE2 production. CBD, however, was able to induce a slight but significant direct inhibition of COX-2 in the acellular model. Conclusion: The effects of CBD occur in the μM concentration range, which is attained in humans with therapeutic doses of the drug, suggesting the clinical relevance of these findings.

Keywords: COX-1; COX-2; PGE2; PMN; cannabidiol.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cannabidiol* / pharmacology
  • Cannabinoids* / pharmacology
  • Cyclooxygenase 2 / genetics
  • Cyclooxygenase 2 / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Neutrophils / metabolism
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism
  • RNA, Messenger / pharmacology

Substances

  • Cyclooxygenase 2
  • Cannabidiol
  • Cannabinoids
  • RNA, Messenger