Cannabidiol in Gliomas: Therapeutic Potential and Nanocarrier Strategies, with an Emphasis on Vesicular Delivery Systems

Cannabidiol (CBD), a nonpsychoactive phytocannabinoid extracted from <i>Cannabis sativa</i>, has emerged as a compound of considerable therapeutic interest across numerous medical disciplines, including pain management, anti-inflammatory therapy, and oncology. This review critically examines the potential of CBD in the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), one of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant primary brain tumors. Particular emphasis is placed on the molecular mechanisms underlying CBD's antitumor activity, including the modulation of key signaling pathways, inhibition of tumor proliferation, and enhancement of chemosensitivity. Furthermore, the review highlights the increasing role of nanotechnology in overcoming the intrinsic pharmacokinetic limitations of CBD, particularly its low oral bioavailability, which presents a significant challenge to its clinical application. Advanced nanocarrier platforms, including nanoemulsions, nanoparticles, nanoparticle-based transdermal systems, nanocapsules, and liposomes, have shown promise in optimizing CBD delivery to the central nervous system (CNS). Notably, the integration of CBD into lipid-based drug delivery systems (LBDDS) is highlighted as a particularly promising strategy to potentiate its therapeutic efficacy. This approach enhances bioavailability and may amplify synergistic effects when combined with conventional chemotherapeutics or targeted agents. Overall, the synergistic use of nanotechnological approaches and CBD-based therapies may open new avenues for research, offering the potential to significantly advance treatment efficacy in glioblastoma and other diseases.