A recent study conducted on over 1,000 adults has suggested that the use of cannabis can lead to alterations in the human body’s epigenome. The epigenome acts as a control panel for our genes, turning them on or off to regulate various bodily functions. The research, led by epidemiologist Lifang Hou from Northwestern University, shed light on the impact of cannabis use on epigenetic markers over time.
Hou and her team delved into the effects of cumulative marijuana use on the epigenome by analyzing blood samples from study participants collected over a 20-year period. The individuals, who were between the ages of 18 and 30 at the beginning of the study, provided blood samples at the 15- and 20-year marks. Through the examination of DNA methylation levels, the researchers identified changes in epigenetic markers associated with recent and long-term cannabis use.
DNA methylation, a well-studied epigenetic modification, involves the addition or removal of methyl groups from DNA strands. These modifications do not alter the genetic code itself but affect gene activity by obstructing the reading of genomic instructions by cells. Environmental and lifestyle factors, such as cannabis use, can trigger methylation changes that may have implications for both individual health outcomes and future generations.
The study identified a range of DNA methylation markers in blood samples correlated with cannabis use. Notably, the researchers observed 22 markers associated with recent cannabis use in the 15-year samples and 132 markers linked to recent use in the 20-year samples. Additionally, 31 markers were found to be linked to cumulative cannabis use in the 15-year samples and 16 markers in the 20-year samples. Interestingly, the study revealed a potential shared epigenetic regulation between tobacco and marijuana use, highlighting the need for further investigation into these associations.
Previous research has linked epigenetic changes associated with cannabis use to various health conditions, including cellular proliferation, hormone signaling, infections, and neurological disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, it is essential to emphasize that this study does not establish a direct causal relationship between cannabis use and these health outcomes. Epidemiologist Drew Nannini from Northwestern University underscored the importance of additional studies to validate and expand on the findings to determine the consistency of these associations across diverse populations.
The research on the effects of cannabis on epigenetic changes in the human body offers valuable insights into the potential repercussions of cannabis use on gene regulation and overall health. While the study uncovers intriguing associations between cannabis use and epigenetic factors, further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore the implications for individual health and well-being.
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