Cannabidiol as a possible treatment for endometriosis through suppression of inflammation and angiogenesis

Abstract

Background

Endometriosis is associated with a wide variety of signs and symptoms and can lead to infertility, embryo death, and even miscarriage. Although the exact pathogenesis and etiology of endometriosis is still unclear, it has been shown that it has a chronic inflammatory nature and angiogenesis is also involved in it.

Objective

This review aims to explore the role of inflammation and angiogenesis in endometriosis and suggest a potential treatment targeting these pathways.

Findings

Among the pro-inflammatory cytokines, studies have shown solid roles for interleukin 1β (IL-β), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in the pathogenesis of this condition. Other than inflammation, angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing capillaries, is also involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Among angiogenic factors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are more essential in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Interestingly, it has been shown that inflammation and angiogenesis share some similar pathways with each other that could be potentially targeted for treatment of diseases caused by these two processes. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive member of cannabinoids which has well-known and notable anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic properties. This agent has been shown to decrease IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, VEGF, TGFβ, and MMPs in different animal models of diseases.

Conclusion

It seems that CBD could be a possible treatment for endometriosis due to its anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic activity, however, further studies are needed.