People who develop an addiction to cannabis share specific genetic markers, regardless of their racial background, according to a large-scale study.
About one-third of individuals who regularly use cannabis are at risk of developing cannabis use disorder, which involves continued use despite adverse effects. Those affected often struggle to quit and require increasing doses for the desired effect, according to Joel Gelernter at Yale School of Medicine.
Previous research has explored the genetic link to problematic cannabis use, but this latest study is the first to examine a large and diverse sample across different racial backgrounds. The research delved into the genetic information of over 1 million individuals from the Million Veteran Program, which includes data from US military members of various ancestries. The study used genetic correlation to assess variations in DNA associated with cannabis use disorder.
The examination of DNA variations revealed similar patterns across different ancestries. For instance, individuals with European ancestry exhibiting strong expression of a neuronal receptor called CHRNA2 were found to have a higher risk of developing cannabis use disorder. Furthermore, analysis of health records showed a connection between lung cancer and cannabis use disorder among those with European ancestry, even after considering cigarette use.
According to Gelernter, the potential increase in lung cancer cases associated with cannabis use may not be observable until decades from now. He emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant and monitoring this potential health impact.
The science of cannabis
As the use of marijuana and its compounds rises around the world, sciencewithrv explores the latest research on the medical potential of cannabis, how it is grown and its environmental impact, the way cannabis affects our bodies and minds, and what the marijuana of the future will look like.
