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.
RESTORE YOUR SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS
RESTORE YOUR PROFESSIONAL LICENSE
RESTORE YOUR DRIVER LICENSE
RESTORE YOUR PAST (Expungements)
Call our Office for a free case evaluation
Komorn Law (248) 357-2550
Professional License Restoration / Rights Restoration / Record Expungments / Driver License Restoration
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.
![Komorn Law Established 1993-1-540-01](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Komorn-Law-Established-1993-1-540-01.jpg)
Komorn Law – Federal Courts and All Michigan Courts
“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
More Posts
![Charged with DUI from Cannabis and this Ends up on the Report](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Charged-with-a-DUI-for-Marijuana.jpg)
Charged with DUI from Cannabis and this Ends up on the Report
So you got pulled over and charged with DUI from Cannabis use and this ends up on the report 11-Nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-COOH-THC or THC-COOH) as part of the test results. What is it?? Here's what they say...
![The Marijuana Industry Paid an Extra $1.8 Billion in Federal Taxes Because of the 280E Tax Code](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Money-Money-Money.jpg)
The Marijuana Industry Paid an Extra $1.8 Billion in Federal Taxes Because of the 280E Tax Code
News from the internet Why legalize cannabis when 280E is the gift that keeps on giving to the Federal government? Whitney Economics, a cannabis research firm, recently conducted a comprehensive analysis of the impact of federal taxes on the cannabis industry. The...
![DUI in Michigan](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Komorn-Law-DUI-Legal-Defense.jpg)
DUI in Michigan
DUI in MichiganDriving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Michigan that can result in severe legal consequences. Michigan DUI laws and penalties are designed to prevent impaired driving and keep the roads safe for everyone. From fines and license...
![Conducting Criminal Enterprise Charges (CCE)](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Criminal-Enterprise-in-Michigan.jpg)
Conducting Criminal Enterprise Charges (CCE)
Conducting Criminal Enterprise laws and penalties in MichiganConducting Criminal Enterprise (CCE) is a serious offense in Michigan, carrying severe penalties for those convicted. Defined under Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL), CCE refers to the involvement in a pattern of...
![Michigan’s DUI Laws and Penalties](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drunk-Driving-Drunk-Driving.jpg)
Michigan’s DUI Laws and Penalties
Michigan's OWI Laws and PenaltiesAn DUI / OUI / OWVI conviction requires proof only that the driver shows visible signs of impairment due to ingesting alcohol or drugs. The Michigan Law Under MCL 257.625(3), you are assumed guilty of a crime if, regardless of your...
![Michigan Law on Boating Under the Influence](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drunk-Boating-in-Michigan.jpg)
Michigan Law on Boating Under the Influence
Michigan Laws on Boating Under the InfluenceBoating is a fun activity, but it can be dangerous if the operator is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Michigan law prohibits operating a motorboat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Boating Under the...
![I was arrested what should I do](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/I-was-arrested-what-should-I-do.jpg)
I was arrested what should I do
I was arrested what should I doIf you have been accused of any Crime or DUI.Call Our Office If You're Ready to Fight it.DO NOT TALK CONFESS BE AN A-HOLE THINK YOUR SMARTER THAN THE COPS THINK BY COOPERATING THEY WILL BE ON YOUR SIDE LIE (You can't lie if you say...
![Federal Court Strikes Down Gun Ban For People Who Use Marijuana](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/The-federal-governments-justification-for-upholding-the-law-is-concerning.jpg)
Federal Court Strikes Down Gun Ban For People Who Use Marijuana
The federal government's justification for upholding the law is "concerning," according to a federal judge, who ruled that the ban on marijuana users owning firearms is unconstitutional. A man was charged in Oklahoma in 2022 after police found marijuana and a handgun...
![Police found my friend’s drugs in my car-What do I do?](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Police-found-my-friends-drugs-in-my-car-What-do-I-do.jpg)
Police found my friend’s drugs in my car-What do I do?
When you're pulled over by the police and your friend throws their stash under your seat. Are they still your friend? That's up to you. But at the moment you probably are going to take the fall, pay the price and have your life turned inside out and upside down. The...
![The Right to a Jury Trial](https://komornlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Right-to-a-trial-by-Jury-6th-Amendment.jpg)
The Right to a Jury Trial
When facing criminal charges you have the right to have a trial by jury. The justice system will offer you the right to a jury trial. It's just a matter if you can afford that right. A jury trial with an attorney that is not a public defender can be costly. If you...