Neuroprotective effect of cannabidiol on NTF-3 and IGF-1 genes expression

Abstract

Cannabidiol is a herbal compound that has been found to be effective in improvement of inflammatory demyelinating diseases and could be useful to increase supportive factors in remyelination. It is derived from <em>Cannabis sativa</em> known as Marijuana. The aim of this research was to investigate the changes in the expression of neuroprotective NTF-3 and IGF-1 genes with focus on multiple sclerosis (MS) disease after treating U373-MG glial cells with cannabidiol. In this regard U373-MG astrocyte cells were treated at timescales of 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h with doses of cannabidiol, the total cellular RNA was extracted and converted into cDNA. Eventually, changes in NTF-3 and IGF-1 gene expressions were evaluated by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).<br><br> The results supported the theory that very low doses of the drug are neuroprotective for glial cells and CNS. Probably cannabidiol fulfills it by stimulating the growth and differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells to become mature oligodendrocytes. However, further research work and application of complementary techniques are necessary to ensure trust worthy <em>in vivo</em> and <em>in vitro</em> results.