Molecular targets of cannabinoids and their derivatives in epilepsy – a review with focus on CBD

Acta Biochim Pol. 2025 Sep 30;72:15251. doi: 10.3389/abp.2025.15251. eCollection 2025.

ABSTRACT

In recent years, cannabinoids and their derivatives have been tested for efficacy in epilepsy therapy and related disorders. Many of them may help alleviate ailments associated with seizures. An in-depth study of cannabinoid derivatives and the receptors on which they operate give us a chance for more effective use of these substances in epilepsy therapy. Many studies point to the beneficial synergy of cannabinoids with chemotherapeutics and the increase in effectiveness of the latter. As a result, both alternatives to drug treatment and support for the pharmacotherapy are being developed. In this review, we focused on compounds such as Δ9-THC, CBDV, Δ9-THCA, Δ9-THCV, H2CBD and their receptors as well as on CBD’s actions, and the enzymes, ion channels, and transporters engaged in the fundamental causes of epileptic seizures. Treating epilepsy and drug-resistant epilepsy are the two common medical uses of cannabinoids. We looked at approximately 150 current scientific articles from peer-reviewed journals to explore the molecular effects of cannabinoids in these applications. Our goal was to improve physician awareness of factors influencing treatment decisions and potential adverse reactions to minimize medical errors and optimize patient care.

PMID:41098593 | PMC:PMC12518173 | DOI:10.3389/abp.2025.15251