Priming Canine Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells with CBD-Rich Cannabis Extract Modulates Neurotrophic Factors Expression Profile

Abstract

The endocannabinoid system regulates key biological functions such as neuroprotection, pain modulation, inflammation, and immunomodulation. Cannabis-based therapies have gained attention due to the therapeutic potential of their bioactive compounds, particularly phytocannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD), which exhibit anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely studied for their regenerative and immunomodulatory potential. This study evaluated the effects of priming canine adipose tissue-derived MSCs (cAT-MSCs) with a CBD-rich cannabis extract on cell morphology, viability, neurotrophic factor gene expression, and cytokine gene and protein expression. cAT-MSCs (<i>n</i> = 5) were primed for 24 h and divided into three groups: Control (C, unprimed), D1 (2.25 µM CBD), and D2 (225 nM CBD). No morphological or viability changes were observed. Gene expression analysis showed that groups D1 and D2 exhibited increased HGF expression. D1 also showed increased IDO and decreased BDNF expression. In contrast, no significant changes were observed in GDNF, IL-10, TNF-α, IFN-γ, or PTGES2. Regarding the cytokine profile, GM-CSF, IL-2, and IL-10 were undetectable. Notably, IL-8 and MCP-1 levels were significantly reduced in D1 compared to the control. These findings suggest that CBD priming modulates key regenerative and inflammatory mediators in cAT-MSCs, supporting its potential application in enhancing the efficacy of cell-based therapies.