The cannabis extract cannabinoid PHEC-66 may effectively treat melanoma, according to an article published in Forbes. Despite only representing about 6% of skin cancer cases, melanoma causes 80% of skin cancer–related mortality. Previous research has demonstrated that compounds found in cannabis—including polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenes—could promote anticancer activity. In a recent study published by Bachari et al in Cells, researchers examined whether cannabinoid PHEC-66 could induce programmed cell death in melanoma cells. They found that the extract was capable of interacting with the endocannabinoid system receptors CB1 and CB2 to cause varying alterations in the expression of receptor genes, decelerate the growth of melanoma cells, and increase melanoma apoptosis. The researchers then validated their findings by treating the melanoma cells with CB1 and CB2 antagonists and determined that melanoma cell viability increased—thereby linking cannabinoid PHEC-66’s efficacy to CB2 receptors. Although the researchers hope cannabinoid PHEC-66 can soon be a beneficial supplementary therapy in patients with melanoma, they noted that further preclinical studies may be needed to better understand its efficacy.