Appetite and cannabis: Groundbreaking brain research

Exploring the brain's response to cannabis: A scientific breakthrough

In a groundbreaking study by Washington State University, researchers have unveiled a significant discovery in understanding how cannabis influences appetite. This research, published in the journal Scientific Reports, could have far-reaching implications for treating various appetite disorders.

The study's core findings

The study focused on the effects of vaporized cannabis sativa on mice. Using advanced calcium imaging technology, akin to a brain MRI, scientists observed the activation of specific cells in the hypothalamus when the mice anticipated and consumed palatable food. These cells remained inactive in mice not exposed to cannabis.

Jon Davis, an assistant professor of neuroscience at WSU and the study's lead author, noted the significance of these findings. "When the mice are given cannabis, neurons that are typically dormant become active. This indicates a crucial response in the hypothalamus following vapor cannabis exposure," he explained.

Technological advances in the study

Calcium imaging, previously used to study the brain's reaction to food, was employed for the first time to understand brain responses following cannabis exposure. This innovative approach allowed researchers to pinpoint the activation of the cannabinoid-1 receptor, a known target of cannabis, which controls the activity of Agouti Related Protein neurons in the hypothalamus, known for their role in feeding behavior.

By employing a chemogenetic technique, which acts like a molecular switch, researchers could focus on these neurons during cannabis exposure. Intriguingly, when these neurons were deactivated, cannabis lost its appetite-stimulating effect.

Implications for future research and therapeutics

This study not only sheds light on how recreational cannabis use stimulates appetite but also opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions. The findings could be pivotal in developing treatments for appetite disorders in cancer patients, anorexia, and potentially obesity.

Building on previous research

This research builds upon earlier studies from Davis' lab, which were among the first to use vaporized whole cannabis plant matter in animal studies, aiming for a more accurate representation of human cannabis use. Prior research by the team had identified genetic changes in the hypothalamus in response to cannabis, leading to the current study's focus on this brain region.

The study received support from various institutions, including the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Program, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, along with funding from the state of Washington Initiative Measure No. 171.

This research marks a significant step in understanding the complex interactions between cannabis and the brain. By uncovering the specific mechanisms through which cannabis stimulates appetite, it provides a foundation for future studies and potential treatments for various appetite-related disorders.