Our genes can predict whether or not we will become addicted to cannabis.
It is estimated that almost 30% of people who try cannabis end up developing a substance use disorder associated with this herb. The most common predictors include how often a person uses it and whether or not they have a family history of drug use.
Now, in a study this Monday in Molecular Psychiatryresearchers have identified specific regions of the human genome linked to cannabis use, meaning that propensity to become addicted to weed may be encoded in DNA.
Scientists at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine, working in the field of psychiatry, surveyed 132,000 people about their cannabis use as well as their genetic data.
As explained by , this type of study is known as a genome-wide association study (GWAS); compares the DNA of thousands of people to find genetic variations that are most common in those who have a certain characteristic or condition.
Drug? It’s genetics to blame
This study identifies two main genes that were associated with the cannabis consumption throughout life, as well as a range of other conditions.
The first, known as Cell Adhesion Molecule 2 (CADM2)had previously been associated with impulsive personality, obesity and cancer metastasis.
The second gene, called Metabotropic Glutamate 3 Receptor (GRM3)has been linked to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
A secondary analysis of the data revealed over 40 associated genes lifetime cannabis use and four frequency-associated genes consumption of this herb.
“We showed that the genetics of cannabis use – both trying it and using it more frequently – is linked to the genetics of other psychiatric traits, cognitive measures and even physical health problems,” he told New Atlas, Sandra Sanchez-Roigesenior author of the study.
Although the findings do not mean that the presence of these genes will inevitably cause the condition, understanding the genetic association and molecular systems that exist between our brain and substance use can help to identify people who may be more susceptible.
