Cannabis Compounds Show Promise Against One of the Deadliest Cancers

OG article by Frontiers

December 18, 2025

Scientists have discovered that two cannabis-derived compounds, THC and CBD, can inhibit the growth and spread of ovarian cancer cells in lab experiments. The study, led by Dr. Siyao Tong from Khon Kaen University, found that both compounds, when applied individually or together, reduced the ability of ovarian cancer cells to multiply and form colonies. Notably, a 1:1 combination of CBD and THC was particularly effective, significantly limiting cell growth and survival compared to either compound alone. The treatment also prevented cancer cells from migrating, potentially reducing the risk of metastasis, a leading cause of death in ovarian cancer patients.

The compounds showed minimal impact on healthy cells, suggesting a lower risk of toxicity compared to current treatments. The researchers believe the compounds work by regulating the overactive PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, which is linked to tumor growth and treatment resistance in ovarian cancer. This restoration of normal pathway function likely contributes to the compounds’ ability to halt cancer cell proliferation.

While the findings are promising, the study was conducted in vitro, and further research, including in vivo models and pharmacokinetic studies, is needed to confirm the compounds’ efficacy and safety in clinical settings. The results, published in Frontiers in Pharmacology, lay a foundation for exploring CBD and THC as potential components of future ovarian cancer therapies.