Enhancing the in vitro cytotoxic activity of Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol in leukemic cells through a combinatorial approach.
Delta(9)-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active metabolite of cannabis, which has demonstrable cytotoxic activity in vitro. In support of our previously published data, we have investigated the interactions between THC and anti-leukemia therapies and studied the role of the signalling pathways in mediating these effects. Results showed clear synergistic interactions between THC and the cytotoxic agents in leukemic cells. Additionally, exposure of cells to sub lethal levels of THC (1 microM) sensitised cells to these cytotoxic agents, by reducing IC(50) values by approximately 50%. Sensitisation appeared to be dependent upon the ability of THC to down regulate phosphorylated ERK, as cells dominantly expressive of MEK were not sensitised to the cytotoxic drugs by equi-molar amounts of THC. Overall, these results demonstrate for the first time that a combination approach with THC and established cytotoxic agents may enhance cell death in vitro. Additionally the MAPK/ERK pathway appears responsible in part for these effects.
Liu
Wai M
WM
Department of Oncology, St George's University of London, Jenner Wing, London, UK. w.liu@sgul.ac.uk
Scott
Katherine A
KA
Shamash
Jonathan
J
Joel
Simon
S
Powles
Thomas B
TB
D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000494:pharmacology*; D045744:Cell Line, Tumor; D015536:Down-Regulation; D013759:Dronabinol / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004357:Drug Synergism; D048049:Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007938:Leukemia / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D020935:MAP Kinase Signaling System; D010766:Phosphorylation; D015398:Signal Transduction
D013759:Dronabinol; D048049:Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases