# CBD Disrupts Malme-3M Cell Metabolism via Glycolytic Shift and Redox Imbalance

## TL;DR

CBD affects cancer cell metabolism by shifting energy production and disrupting redox balance, potentially offering a new approach to cancer treatment.

## Contribution

First metabolomics study of CBD's effects on Malme-3M melanoma and BJ fibroblast cells, revealing distinct metabolic responses.

## Key findings

- CBD treatment reduces TCA metabolites and increases glycolytic output in Malme-3M cells.
- ATP levels and redox maintenance metabolites decrease in Malme-3M cells after CBD exposure.
- CBD induces differential metabolic responses between cancerous and non-cancerous cells.

## Abstract

Background: Accumulating evidence suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) exerts variable effects on cancer cells that influence cellular activity, including growth. While anecdotal evidence abounds, mechanistic studies have lagged. Methods: Malme-3M cells derived from melanoma and less-aggressive BJ fibroblast cells were incubated with CBD. CE-MS mass spectroscopy was used to measure metabolite changes resulting from CBD treatment. Results: Data indicate a differential response between malignant Malme-3M cells and BJ fibroblasts with respect to metabolites critical for primary metabolic function. A significant reduction in TCA metabolites is seen with a corresponding increase in glycolytic output in the Malme-3M cell line. A similar reduction in TCA activity in BJ fibroblasts appears to differentially activate fatty acid oxidation. ATP is significantly reduced in the Malme-3M cells with a corresponding decrease in metabolites associated with redox maintenance. Conclusions: This is the first metabolomics analyses of malignant Malme-3M cells and less-aggressive BJ fibroblasts after pre-treatment with CBD. The data suggest that the CBD-induced metabolic perturbation could reprogram cellular metabolism and affect ATP production and redox maintenance of the more-aggressive Malme-3M cells.