Expression of CB1 and CB2 Receptors in Primary and Metastatic Feline Neoplasms.

• Grant number: 25/20733-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Animal Pathology
• Principal Investigator: Renee Laufer Amorim
• Grantee: Amanda de Castro Santos
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Botucatu. Botucatu , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and their endogenous and exogenous agonists are components of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a signaling network that regulates physiological functions. Cannabinoids have demonstrated antitumor potential through their ability to trigger cell death mechanisms. Although CB1 and CB2 expression has been reported in several types of neoplasms, their overexpression is frequently associated with poor prognosis. Veterinary studies remain limited, but these receptors have already been identified in certain canine tumors. This study aims to characterize the expression profile of CB1 and CB2 in primary malignant neoplasms and their corresponding metastases in felines, using gene expression analysis. A total of 80 samples will be examined, including 60 neoplastic tissues (30 carcinomas and 30 sarcomas) and 20 metastatic lesions (lymph node or distant sites). Gene expression will be compared with tissues that physiologically express CB1 (brain) and CB2 (lymph node). By mapping receptor expression, this research seeks to identify CB1 and CB2 as potential predictive biomarkers in feline cancer, particularly in metastatic cases, which remain the greatest therapeutic challenge. The findings may provide a foundation for future studies on the prognostic and therapeutic value of cannabinoids in oncology. This project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) "Good Health and Well-being."