Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide, partly due to late diagnosis, drug resistance, and side effects from traditional treatments. This review explores how phytocannabinoids—natural compounds like cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG)—may be combined with nanotechnology to improve cancer treatment. Researchers focused on a specific type of nanocarrier called halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), which are naturally occurring clay structures that can carry and deliver drugs more effectively within the body.

The review highlights that cannabinoids already show anticancer activity in laboratory models, including reducing tumor cell growth, promoting programmed cell death, and influencing oxidative stress pathways. However, their real-world use has been limited due to poor stability, low solubility, and rapid breakdown in the body. By using HNTs as delivery systems, researchers suggest these challenges can be overcome. The nanotubes can protect cannabinoids from degradation, improve their absorption, and allow for controlled, targeted release directly to tumor cells, potentially increasing effectiveness while reducing side effects.

Overall, the study presents a promising strategy that combines the biological activity of cannabinoids with advanced drug delivery technology. This approach may improve how treatments reach cancer cells, enhance therapeutic outcomes, and reduce toxicity. However, most of the evidence is still based on preclinical research, and further studies—including clinical trials—are needed to confirm safety and effectiveness in humans.

Source:
Bęben D, Moreira H, Barg E. Phytocannabinoids and Nanotechnology in Lung Cancer: A Review of Therapeutic Strategies with a Focus on Halloysite Nanotubes. National Library of Medicine (NIH):
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12472321/