For the first time, scientists have uncovered the precise neurological impacts of cannabis use that give rise to the phenomenon famously referred to as the “munchies,” as revealed by an innovative study backed by federal funds.
Researchers at Washington State University (WSU) have recently published their findings in the journal Scientific Reports, shedding valuable light on the neural mechanism through which cannabis activates a specific cluster of neurons in the hypothalamus region of the brain, resulting in an increased stimulation of appetite.
The hunger-inducing effects of marijuana are well-known among consumers. However, recent findings from animal research provide valuable insights that could potentially lead to targeted therapeutics for addressing conditions such as anorexia.
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After exposing mice to vaporized cannabis, the researchers utilized calcium imaging technology, akin to a brain MRI, to monitor the changes in neuron activity. Through their investigation, they discovered that marijuana vapor attached to cannabinoid-1 receptors in the brain and activated Agouti Related Protein neurons in the hypothalamus, commonly known as “feeding” neurons.
Calcium imaging has been used to study the brain’s reactions to food by other researchers, but this is the first known study to use it to understand those features following cannabis exposure.
As part of this research, it was discovered that the cannabinoid-1 receptor, which is a target of cannabis, regulates the activity of Agouti Related Protein neurons. These particular neurons are well-known for their involvement in controlling feeding behavior and are located in the hypothalamus. This finding sheds light on the intricate connection between the cannabinoid system and the regulation of these essential cells in the brain.
With the help of this information, scientists employed a “chemogenetic” technique, acting as a molecular light switch, to specifically target these neurons in animals exposed to cannabis. By deactivating these neurons, the appetite-stimulating effects of cannabis were no longer present.
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“We now know one of the ways that the brain responds to recreational-type cannabis to promote appetite,” said Davis.
This work builds on previous research on cannabis and appetite from Davis’ lab, which was among the first to use whole vaporized cannabis plant matter in animal studies instead of injected THC—in an effort to better mimic how cannabis is used by humans.
In the previous study, researchers discovered genetic alterations in the hypothalamus as a response to cannabis. Therefore, in this investigation, Davis and his colleagues specifically concentrated on this particular region.
Now tell us why it makes food taste so much better!
Read more here – Cannabis activates specific hunger neurons in brain
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