Exploring the Potential Effects of Cannabidiol on the Regenerative Ability of Planaria

Abstract

Stem cell regeneration holds high levels of potential for advancing treatments in regenerative medicine, through its potential to repair damaged tissues. Recent studies of cannabidiol (CBD) have revealed its capability to promote stem cell regeneration. CBD’s influence on stem cell growth is derived from interactions with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). While CBD has exhibited a wide number of benefits for humans, its effects on regenerative medicine are underexplored. Planaria, a type of freshwater flatworm known for its regenerative abilities, provides an ideal model for studying stem cell regrowth. This study investigated the potential of CBD to influence planarian regeneration, expecting to find a positive correlation between CBD dose and regeneration rate. Instead, preliminary results show no correlation between CBD dose and regeneration, and a growth inhibition effect was observed based on the potential bioaccumulation of CBD.

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