Connect with us

Cannabis News

Melanoma Diagnosis is Skyrocketing and Cannabis May Now Be Part of a Treatment Solution for Many Patients

Published

on


melanoma skin cancer marijuana

A recent in-vitro investigation has unveiled the potential of cannabis extract in slowing down the proliferation of melanoma cells and enhancing their apoptotic rate.

 

The mechanism of programmed cell death produced by a particular cannabis extract known as cannabinoid PHEC-66 was investigated in a study led by academics from Charles Darwin University (CDU) and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT). The effects of this extract on melanoma cells were carefully examined. MGC Pharmaceuticals in Australia created this concentrated formulation.

 

According to research that was partially funded by MGC Pharmaceuticals Ltd. in Australia and published in the journal Cells, the cannabis extract may have the ability to interact with receptors on particular types of melanoma cells, which might make it useful as an adjuvant treatment for malignant melanoma. To fully evaluate its safety and effectiveness, however, more preclinical research is necessary.

 

Understanding Melanoma and its Resistance to Traditional Treatments

 

Melanomas, arising from melanocytes in the epidermis, constitute only a small portion, approximately 6%, of skin cancers. Yet, they account for over 80% of skin cancer-related fatalities.

 

This malignancy exhibits a pronounced tendency for metastasis, forming tumors locally and in distant locations while displaying resistance to conventional therapies.

 

Currently, treatment options for metastatic melanoma are scant. However, emerging evidence suggests that certain naturally occurring compounds derived from cannabis strains and plants, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenes, harbor anticancer properties potentially advantageous in melanoma management.

 

Prior research has illustrated that activating CB1 and CB2 receptors with plant-derived compounds can impede early tumor growth across various cancers, operating as mediators that initiate diverse molecular pathways.

 

In this study, the cannabis extract PHEC-66 was observed to hinder the proliferation and migration of melanoma cells through interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors within the endocannabinoid system.

 

To affirm these observations, melanoma cells were exposed to CB1 and CB2 antagonists to inhibit these receptors. This was conducted to ascertain if blocking CB1 or CB2 receptors would influence PHEC-66’s efficacy on cell viability. The results demonstrated a noticeable increase in cell viability among melanoma cells.

 

Specifically, researchers scrutinized how PHEC-66 interacts with its receptors in the presence of selective blockers, AM251 and AM630, which inhibit CB1 and CB2 receptors, respectively. By utilizing these blockers, it was corroborated that the reduction in growth induced by PHEC-66 primarily hinges on CB2 receptors across all tested melanoma cells.

 

“These findings suggest that the CB1 receptor may play a minor role in PHEC-66 activity on MM96L [metastatic melanoma] cells, whereas CB2 antagonist significantly countered PHEC-66 cytotoxicity in all examined cell lines,” as per the study’s findings.

 

Potential Therapeutic Implications of Cannabis Compounds in Melanoma Treatment

 

An exciting new area of cancer research is the study of cannabis chemicals’ potential therapeutic benefits in the treatment of melanoma. In preclinical investigations, these naturally occurring substances—such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenes—found in cannabis plants have shown noteworthy capacities to impede melanoma cell growth and induce programmed cell death, or apoptosis.

 

In contrast to traditional chemotherapy drugs, chemicals produced from cannabis provide the possibility of a more focused and maybe less harmful method of treating melanoma. Because of their unique characteristics and modes of action, these substances might provide patients with complementary or effective alternative therapy, thereby reducing the unfavorable side effects of conventional medicines.

 

Moreover, mixing several cannabis components may have synergistic effects that improve their therapeutic efficiency against melanoma. By customizing treatment plans to take advantage of these synergies, melanoma therapy may become more individualized, enhancing patient outcomes and even quality of life. The investigation of cannabis chemicals in the treatment of melanoma shows great potential for developing the area of oncology and enhancing patient care, even if more study is required to completely comprehend the complexities of their processes and to improve dose tactics.

 

Investigating the Role of Endocannabinoid System Receptors in Melanoma Cell Response to PHEC-66

 

The analysis of endocannabinoid system receptors in melanoma cell responses to PHEC-66 gives information on the complex molecular pathways underlying cannabis extracts’ therapeutic benefits. The CB1 and CB2 receptors are key to our study because they play important roles in modulating the cellular response to cannabis.

 

By conducting targeted investigations on these receptors, researchers aimed to establish the specific roles that CB1 and CB2 antagonists play in the cytotoxicity that PHEC-66 produces. The findings suggest a complicated connection between melanoma cells and cannabinoid receptors, with CB2 receptors serving as the primary mediators of PHEC-66 activity in a range of cell types.

 

On top of that, specific blocking of CB1 and CB2 receptors with blockers like AM251 and AM630 has allowed for the discovery of significant new information on the unique effects of PHEC-66 on melanoma cell survival. Scientists want to enhance therapeutic methods and treatment outcomes for melanoma patients by determining the distinct roles played by CB1 and CB2 receptors in mediating the anti-tumour effects of cannabis extracts.

 

Understanding the Molecular Interplay between Cannabinoid Receptors and Melanoma Cells

 

Investigating the molecular interactions between melanoma cells and cannabinoid receptors provides important new understandings of the processes behind the therapeutic potential of cannabis extracts such as PHEC-66. The endocannabinoid system’s CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are essential for controlling how cells react to cannabis, are at the center of this study.

 

To investigate the precise functions of CB1 and CB2 antagonists in mediating the cytotoxic effects of PHEC-66 on melanoma cells, researchers have carried well focused studies. These investigations have shown a complicated link between the behavior of melanoma cells and cannabinoid receptors, with CB2 receptors appearing as important mediators of the action of PHEC-66 in various melanoma cell lines.

 

Additionally, by using certain antagonists like AM251 and AM630 to specifically block CB1 and CB2 receptors, researchers have learned important information about how PHEC-66 affects melanoma cell survival differently. These results open the door to future-focused and successful treatment interventions by providing a greater knowledge of the molecular interactions between cannabis chemicals and melanoma cells.

 

Bottom Line

 

The investigation into cannabis extracts, particularly PHEC-66, for melanoma treatment, offers promising prospects in innovative cancer therapies, as evidenced by in-vitro studies indicating their potential to inhibit melanoma cell proliferation and induce programmed cell death. Delving into the intricate molecular interplay between cannabinoid receptors and melanoma cells sheds light on the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of these compounds, with CB1 and CB2 receptors emerging as key mediators of PHEC-66 activity. While further research is needed to elucidate therapeutic implications and refine treatment strategies fully, the findings suggest a hopeful future for utilizing cannabis compounds in melanoma therapy, intending to enhance patient outcomes and advance oncological care.

 

MARIJUANA AND MELANOMA, READ ON…

MARIJUANA FOR MELANOMA SKIN CANCER

MEDICAL MARIJUANA FOR MELANOMA? WHAT DO WE KNOW?



Source link

Continue Reading

Cannabis News

Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It

Published

on

By


trump on marijuana reform

In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.

 

The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation

 

Federal vs. State Laws

Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.

 

Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry

 

Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:

  • Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.

  • Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.

  • Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.

 

Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform

 

Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.

 

Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.

 

The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies

 

Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.

 

Current Regulatory Challenges

 

The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:

 

  • Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.

  • Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.

  • Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.

 

Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation

 

Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.

 

In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:

 

1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.

2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.

3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.

 

Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.

 

Implications of Proposed Reforms

 

Economic Impact

 

The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:

 

  • Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.

  • Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.

  • Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.

 

Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.

 

Social Justice Considerations

 

Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:

 

  • Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.

  • Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.

 

Political Landscape

 

The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.

 

Conclusion

 

Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.

 

TRUMP 2.0 ON CANNABIS REFORM, READ ON…

TRUMP ON MARIJUANA REFORM

TRUMP 2.0 ON FEDERAL CANNABIS REFORM – WHAT DO WE KNOW?

 



Source link

Continue Reading

Cannabis News

Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em

Published

on

By


On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!

Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:

  1. Panelists:
    • Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
    • Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
    • Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
  2. Election Results Overview:
    • Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
    • Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
    • Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
  3. Federal and State-Level Developments:
    • Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
    • Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
  4. Federal Policy Implications:
    • Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
    • Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
  5. International and Domestic Trade:
    • Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
    • Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
  6. Economic and Industry Impact:
    • Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
    • Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
  7. Future Outlook:
    • The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
    • State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.

Watch the replay!



Source link

Continue Reading

Cannabis News

I Had Just One Puff

Published

on

By


one puff of a joint a drug test

“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.

 

The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.

 

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.

 

Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.

 

THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.

 

THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.

 

The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.

 

The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.

 

Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests

 

Urine Tests

Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.

 

Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:

 

– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days

– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days

– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days

– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days

 

Blood Tests

Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.

 

Saliva Tests

THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.

 

Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.

 

In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.

 

Hair Tests

Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.

 

Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.

 

Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention

 

The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.

 

Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:

 

– Dosage: How much you consume

– Frequency: How often you use cannabis

– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual

– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time

 

Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.

 

How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?

 

When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.

 

The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:

 

– Altered senses, including perception of time

– Mood changes

– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving

– Impaired memory

 

Other short-term effects can include:

– Anxiety and confusion

– Decreased coordination

– Dry mouth and eyes

– Nausea or lightheadedness

– Trouble focusing

– Increased appetite

– Rapid heart rate

– Restlessness and sleepiness

 

In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.

 

Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:

 

– Cognitive issues like memory loss

– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke

– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections

– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety

 

Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.

 

Duration of Effects

Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.

 

Bottom Line

The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.

 

PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..

how long does weed stay in your urine

HOW LONG DOES WEED STAY IN YOUR URINE FOR A DRUG TEST?



Source link

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright © 2021 The Art of MaryJane Media