Neuroprotective Potential of Policosanols Derived from Cannabis sativa L. in Cellular Models of Neuroinflammation

Neuroinflammation is an immune-mediated response within the central nervous system that, when it becomes chronic, it contributes to the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer. It is characterized by hyperreactive microglia, elevated concentrations of pro-inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress. In this context, a purified policosanols (PCs) extract from the waxy matrix of Cannabis sativa L. inflorescences, was evaluated in a series of in vitro assays—including MTT viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and nitrite quantification— conducted in cellular models of neurodegeneration induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The BV-2 microglial and SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell lines were employed to assess cytotoxicity and neuroprotection across a range of extract concentrations. So far, policosanols have been primarily recognized for their lipid-modulating properties—i.e. their ability to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and total cholesterol levels while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL)—as well as for their antioxidant and antiplatelet activities, attributed to the inhibition of thromboxane A2 and enhancement of prostacyclin; however, their potential beyond these established effects remains insufficiently explored. Given the well-established association between oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative disorders, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential neuroprotective properties of the PCs extract by assessing its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities. The extract demonstrated promising neuroprotective activity, evidenced by its capacity to attenuate inflammation and oxidative stress. Importantly, no significant cytotoxic effects were observed at any tested concentration. These findings support the potential therapeutic application of policosanols extract from Cannabis sativa L. in the context of neurodegenerative diseases and warrant further investigation to elucidate their mechanisms of action and clinical relevance.