Guillermo Velasco and a team of researchers at Complutense University in Spain have shown that the psycho-active chemical in marijuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocannibinol (THC), encourages brain cancer cells to begin a process called autophagy, in which the cell basically dissolves itself.
The team noted that cannabinoids such as THC showed cancer-fighting effects in mice implanted with human brain cancer cells and in human patients with brain tumors. When mice implanted with human brain cancer cells that received the THC, showed significant reduction of tumor growth.
Two patients enrolled in a clinical trial received THC directly to the brain as an experimental treatment for recurrent glioblastoma multiforme, a highly aggressive brain tumor. A comparison of biopsies taken before and after treatment showed that that tumors showed increased autophagy activity after receiving the THC.
None of the patients showed toxic effects from the treatment. Earlier assessments of THC in cancer treatment have also shown the therapy to be well tolerated. The researchers say that these findings might lead to new approaches for fighting tumor growth in brain cancer.
The findings appear in the April issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation.
Marijuana compound fights brain cancer
Posted by Crush at 5/19/2009 06:47:00 PM 0 comments
Labels: autophag, Marijuana, THC, University of Spain
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Fox Valley Brain Tumor Coalition - Journey of Hope Walk
The Journey of Hope is our major fundraiser of the year, allowing us to raise most of the funds that we need to survive. This event is critical to the success of this group, so we hope you can join us!
With over 750 walkers, the Fox Valley Brain Tumor Coalition puts on a great party the Saturday after Labor Day every year. The non-competitive walk is held on the grounds of NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin. Our paved ½ mile trail is short enough for nearly everyone to make at least one lap around, and is accessible to wheelchairs! For those who like more of a challenge, we encourage as many laps as you are able to do!
The day is a celebration of those fighting brain tumors and remembering those who have lost their battle. The walk starts with a ceremony at the Tree of Hope, with testimonials from those most affected by this disease, as well as a dedication from neurosurgeon Thomas Wascher MD, one of our biggest supporters.
Once you have built up your appetite from the walk, come in to our party tent for a great home-cooked picnic. We have fresh roasted corn-on-the-cob, hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and sweets! Vegetarian selections are available for those with restricted diets.
A huge silent auction, kids games, music, pictures and more makes this party fun for everyone!
As always, dogs are welcome, but should always be on a leash…we will provide water for our four legged friends!
Your registration cost of $10 (yes still only $10 after all these years!!!) includes a great t-shirt with all of our corporate sponsors proudly displayed, lunch and all the fun you can handle!
New this year is our online registration and personal web page, making it easier for your family and friends to support your efforts.
My Team
