A recent study from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King’s College London and the University of Exeter has revealed that frequent use of high-potency cannabis alters DNA, particularly affecting genes related to energy and immune function. This research, published in Molecular Psychiatry, is the first to demonstrate a distinct DNA imprint associated with high-potency cannabis, defined as containing 10% or more Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
The findings indicate that DNA changes vary between individuals experiencing their first episode of psychosis and those without such experiences. This suggests potential for DNA blood tests to identify cannabis users at risk for developing psychosis, which could inform preventative strategies. Most participants reported using high-potency cannabis frequently and had begun using it around age 16.
Senior author Marta Di Forti emphasized the need to understand the biological impacts of high-potency cannabis, noting the significance of the study in linking cannabis use with changes in DNA methylation—a process that affects gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. The research involved analyzing blood samples from 682 participants, including those with and without psychosis, revealing specific changes in genes like CAVIN1, which are linked to mitochondrial and immune functions.
Dr. Emma Dempster, Senior Lecturer at the University of Exeter and the study’s first author, said: “This is the first study to show that frequent use of high-potency cannabis leaves a distinct molecular mark on DNA, particularly affecting genes related to energy and immune function. Our findings provide important insights into how cannabis use may alter biological processes.” This research provides insights into how cannabis may influence mental health through biological pathways, particularly through lifestyle-related epigenetic changes.
Original story here:https://scitechdaily.com/startling-study-shows-high-potency-cannabis-alters-dna/