Title | Cannabis and the Gut-Brain Axis Communication in HIV Infection. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2021 |
Authors | Wilson, NL, Peterson, SN, Ellis, RJ |
Journal | Cannabis Cannabinoid Res |
Volume | 6 |
Issue | 2 |
Pagination | 92-104 |
Date Published | 2021 Apr |
ISSN | 2378-8763 |
Keywords | Brain-Gut Axis, Cannabis, HIV Infections, Humans, Neuroinflammatory Diseases |
Abstract | People living with HIV infection (PWH) disclose that cannabis is an effective strategy for alleviating symptoms associated with HIV disease. However, some medical providers feel ill-informed to engage in evidence-based conversations. HIV leads to alterations in the gut microbiome, gut-brain axis signaling, and chronic inflammation. The endocannabinoid system regulates homeostasis of multiple organ systems. When deficient, dysregulation of the gut-brain axis can result in chronic inflammation and neuroinflammation. Cannabis along with the naturally occurring endocannabinoids has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can support healing and restoration as an adjunctive therapy. The purpose of this literature review is to report the physiologic mechanisms that occur in the pathology of HIV and discuss potential benefits of cannabinoids in supporting health and reducing the negative effects of comorbidities in PWH. |
DOI | 10.1089/can.2020.0037 |
Alternate Journal | Cannabis Cannabinoid Res |
PubMed ID | 33912676 |
PubMed Central ID | PMC8064951 |
Grant List | R01 DA043430 / DA / NIDA NIH HHS / United States R25 MH083620 / MH / NIMH NIH HHS / United States P30 MH062512 / MH / NIMH NIH HHS / United States T32 NR007081 / NR / NINR NIH HHS / United States R24 AI067039 / AI / NIAID NIH HHS / United States |