THC reduced gut inflammation and prevented lymph node scarring in SIV-infected monkeys

THC-treated SIV-infected macaques showed downregulated pro-inflammatory microRNAs and genes, higher expression of tight junction proteins (occludin, claudin-3), reduced T cell activation, increased anti-inflammatory macrophages, and complete prevention of lymph node fibrosis seen in all vehicle-treated animals.

Chronically SIV-infected rhesus macaques received either THC (n=8) or vehicle (n=9). Researchers profiled miRNA and mRNA expression in colon tissue, assessed gut barrier proteins, measured T cell activation by flow cytometry, and examined lymph node fibrosis.

HIV-associated gut inflammation drives disease progression and is difficult to treat even with antiretroviral therapy. THC's ability to reduce intestinal inflammation and prevent the irreversible lymph node fibrosis that characterizes chronic HIV infection represents a potentially significant therapeutic avenue.

This is among the most detailed mechanistic studies of THC's anti-inflammatory effects in a primate model of HIV. The finding that THC prevented lymph node fibrosis, an irreversible consequence of chronic inflammation, is particularly striking.

Primate model, not human clinical data. Sample sizes were small (8-9 per group). Long-term effects of chronic THC use in immunocompromised individuals need human study. THC dosing may not match typical human use patterns.