Tiny doses of THC show big benefits for HIV treatment

New research from the Texas Biomedical Research Institute suggests that long-term use of very small amounts of THC may reduce inflammation and ease several harmful effects linked to HIV and antiretroviral therapy. THC, short for tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary active compound found in cannabis. In this preclinical research, scientists used extremely low doses that did not cause noticeable nervous system effects such as euphoria or a high. Researchers observed several potential benefits, including higher levels of serotonin and reductions in inflammation, cholesterol, and toxic secondary bile acids. One of the most striking findings was that levels of ART medications in the bloodstream were lower, even though viral suppression remained intact. The study was conducted in animal models that closely reflect people living with HIV who are receiving ART, and the results were recently published in Science Advances. Professor Mahesh Mohan, DVM, Ph.D., and Lakmini Premadasa, Ph.D., led the work. Over a three-year period, Premadasa examined hundreds of metabolites to determine whether daily low-dose THC, taken alongside ART, affected other systems throughout the body. She reported no negative effects. The study used two groups of rhesus macaques infected with simian immunodeficiency virus. Both groups received ART for five months, but only one group was also given low-dose THC. Animals that received THC had significantly lower concentrations of ART drugs circulating in their blood compared to those given ART alone. The group receiving THC also showed a healthier and more balanced gut microbiome, with increased levels of beneficial bacteria known to help lower cholesterol. Researchers also observed reduced levels of secondary bile acids and changes linked to reduced buildup of artery-clogging plaque. Because the study was conducted in nonhuman primates, further research will be needed to determine whether the same effects occur in people. The research team is now examining cannabidiol when combined with THC and delivered orally or by injection alongside ART.