CARÁTER MOLECULAR DOS RECEPTORES ENDOCANABINOIDES NA NEOPLASIA MALIGNA DE MAMA

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, especially among women. In the search for more effective therapeutic alternatives, scientists have discovered a link between the endocannabinoid system and the control of this disease. This system is composed of CB1, CB2, and GPR55 receptors, belonging to the superfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), whose activation is associated with antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic, and anti-invasive effects in breast tumor cells. The CB1 receptor is most prevalent in the central nervous system, while CB2 is more active in tissues linked to the immune system and in tumors. GPR55, on the other hand, may play a role in promoting tumor growth in certain contexts.

In this integrative literature review, we will explore how these receptors act in cancer cells, analyzing how their molecular characteristics influence breast cancer cell behavior. For this purpose, we used articles available in various databases. PubMed and the Virtual Health Library (VHL), published between 2009 and 2024, in English and Portuguese. Of the 26 articles initially identified, 13 were selected according to previously established inclusion and exclusion criteria.

The findings reveal that activation of the system results in cell cycle inhibition, induction of apoptosis, and reduction of angiogenesis, demonstrating its therapeutic potential in breast cancer.

Keywords: endocannabinoid system, cannabinoid receptors, cannabidiol, breast cancer.