Cannabis, a commonly used substance in the United States, has been the subject of a recent study that suggests it may have significant effects on the human body’s epigenome. The epigenome functions as a set of switches that can activate or deactivate genes, ultimately altering how our bodies function. This study, conducted by epidemiologist Lifang Hou and her team from Northwestern University, analyzed over 1,000 adults to explore the relationship between cannabis use and epigenetic markers.
The research involved participants who had been part of a long-term study where they reported their cannabis use over a 20-year period. Blood samples were collected from the participants at the 15- and 20-year points, allowing the researchers to examine changes in DNA methylation levels. DNA methylation, the addition or removal of methyl groups from DNA, is a crucial epigenetic modification that can impact gene activity without altering the genetic sequence.
The study identified multiple epigenetic markers associated with cannabis use, both recent and cumulative. In the 15-year blood samples, 22 markers were linked to recent use, while 31 were associated with cumulative cannabis use. Similarly, the 20-year blood samples revealed 132 markers related to recent use and 16 linked to cumulative use. Surprisingly, the researchers also found a marker previously associated with tobacco use, hinting at a potential shared epigenetic regulation between tobacco and cannabis use.
Prior research has connected epigenetic changes to various health outcomes, including cellular proliferation, hormone signaling, infections, neurological disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. While this study sheds light on the association between cannabis use and epigenetic factors, it is essential to note that it does not prove a direct causal relationship between cannabis use and health problems. Epidemiologist Drew Nannini emphasized the need for additional studies to validate these associations across different populations.
The study on cannabis use and the epigenome highlights the intricate relationship between environmental exposures, lifestyle factors, and molecular changes in our DNA. While cannabis use may lead to significant epigenetic alterations, further research is needed to fully understand the implications for human health. This research opens up new avenues for exploring the impact of cannabis on our biological systems and underscores the importance of continued investigation in this field.