Alzheimer’s disease and CBD: new data very promising.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Recent research in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (J Alzheimers Dis. 2021 Feb 17. doi: 10.3233/JAD-210026) suggests, in mice at the very least, that CBD could act in novel ways in slowing or reversing cognitive decline.
In the study, researchers used a mouse model of familial Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in which the mice were genetically altered so that they develop “mouse AD.” They investigated if CBD regulates interleukin-33 (IL-33) and a triggering receptor TREM2 expressed on myeloid (cells derived from bone marrow, generally immune system cells). This signaling pair is associated with improved cognitive function. Behavioral tests and immunoassays were used to evaluate the effects of CBD, including cognitive and motor tests. The authors conclusion:
“Our findings suggest that CBD treatment enhanced IL-33 and TREM2 expression, ameliorated the symptoms of AD, and retarded cognitive decline. “
This important and new data demonstrates that CBD acts in many different ways, not always just with cannabinoid receptors. As more studies are done on this fascinating molecule, a better appreciation of the myriad effects it elicits will become better understood, and hopefully a better understanding of its mechanisms of action.
Studies and Data Matter
I’d just like to drive home the point that data is king. Anecdotal stories and wishful thinking do not make a drug. There are many claims made about CBD. Some may be true, but we need data.
Now we have solid data that hints at the potential of CBD for preventing, or even reversing AD. This study needs to be followed up with clinical trials in humans with AD. Then we will have the most solid of data.
AD is a devastating disease. There are no good treatments, despite Big Pharma spending billions on research. It would ironic if a well-known cannabinoid can treat the disease with no side effects.
If human trials on AD with CBD show promise, it would be a medical breakthrough of the highest order. Let’s get the human clinical trials started as soon as possible.