An alternative and therapeutic approach for hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma is among of the most frequently forms of liver cancer, with a high death rate, emphasizing the need for improved treatment techniques. Current research has focused on the anti-cancer effects of natural compounds. The most common therapy for HCC varies according to stage: patients in the early stages may require surgical resection or liver transplantation, whereas intermediate-stage patients may get Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). In advanced stages, immunotherapy combined with targeted therapies, especially Atezolizumab-Bevacizumab, has emerged as the standard. CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, has gained attention in cancer research because of its anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, and apoptosis-inducing properties. Studies suggest CBD may inhibit tumor growth, induce cell death, and reduce metastasis. Additionally, CBD is being explored as a complementary treatment for alleviating chemotherapy side effects. Vitamin D is also recognized for its potential function in HCC treatment, given its impact on immune regulation and cell growth control. Vitamin D insufficiency has been associated to HCC progress, emphasizing its potential therapeutic value. The current research tested the anti-cancer impacts of single and combination treatments of Vitamin D and CBD in HEP3B and HUH7 cell lines, focusing on apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle regulation, and DDR. The combination treatment of Vitamin D and CBD demonstrated a synergistic effect, significantly reducing cell survival in both HEP3B and HUH7 cell lines. Notably, the combination induced apoptosis and autophagy in HEP3B cells and inhibited the cell cycle in HUH7 cells, suggesting anti-tumorigenic and anti-cancer effects. These findings indicate the possibility of Vitamin D and CBD as a novel treatment approach against HCC, requiring additional in vivo studies and clinical trials to assess efficacy, safety, and mechanisms in more complex biological systems.