Research Uncovers Link Between Cannabis Use and Epigenetic Changes
A recent study has found a connection between cannabis use and epigenetic changes in the human body. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,000 adults, suggests that the use of cannabis may alter the epigenome, a complex system that regulates gene expression and influences various bodily functions.
The researchers, led by epidemiologist Lifang Hou from Northwestern University, used blood samples from participants who had been asked about their cannabis use over a 20-year period. The samples were taken at two points in time, five years apart, and were analyzed for epigenetic changes, specifically DNA methylation levels.
The study found that recent and cumulative cannabis use were associated with changes in DNA methylation markers in the blood. In fact, the researchers identified 22 markers associated with recent use and 31 markers associated with cumulative use. These changes were found to be linked to various health outcomes, including cellular proliferation, hormone signaling, infections, neurological disorders, and substance use disorders.
Interestingly, the study also found that one of the markers associated with cannabis use was previously linked to tobacco use, suggesting a potential shared epigenetic regulation between the two substances.
While the study does not prove that cannabis directly causes these changes or health problems, it does provide valuable insights into the potential effects of cannabis use on the body. The researchers emphasize that additional studies are needed to determine whether these associations are consistently observed in different populations and to examine the long-term effects of cannabis use on health.
The study’s findings have been published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry and highlight the importance of continued research into the effects of cannabis use on human health.
