Researchers have found that frequent use of high-potency cannabis leaves a unique molecular mark on DNA, particularly affecting genes related to energy and immune function. The study, conducted at King’s College London, suggests a possible genetic link to psychosis risk.
The investigation focused on DNA methylation – an epigenetic modification – which differs between frequent cannabis users who had experienced psychosis and those who had not. This finding may enable future DNA blood tests to identify cannabis users more susceptible to psychosis, potentially informing preventative approaches.
High-potency cannabis is defined as having a Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of 10 percent or more. The study revealed that frequent use leaves distinct DNA marks on genes linked to mitochondrial and immune function, particularly the CAVIN1 gene.
These changes were not explained by tobacco’s impact on DNA methylation, which is often mixed into joints by cannabis users.
The findings provide valuable insights into how cannabis use may alter biological processes through epigenetic mechanisms. The study’s results could help characterise those cannabis users at risk of developing psychosis and inform preventative approaches.
The research was funded by the Medical Research Council, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, and the NIHR Exeter BRC.
Source: https://neurosciencenews.com/genetics-psychosis-cannabis-27877/