Using cannabis may cause changes in the human body's epigenome, a study of over 1,000 adults suggests. The epigenome functions like a set of switches that can turn genes on or off, influencing various biological processes. By studying changes in DNA methylation, the biological process by which methyl groups are added to DNA molecules, thereby altering gene expression, researchers can better understand how cannabis affects the epigenome.
Marijuana is a widely used psychoactive substance in the US, and medical and recreational legalization has risen over the past decade. The researchers found evidence that the drug is associated with DNA methylation, a chemical alteration to the DNA inside human cells. With the increasing popularity and availability of cannabis, it is crucial to understand the potential impact on human health.
Recent research conducted by Northwestern Medicine has shed light on the impact of marijuana use on the human epigenome, highlighting the need for further studies to explore the long-term consequences of cannabis consumption. OHSU researchers warn of potential impacts on brain development and long-term health related to prenatal cannabis exposure, emphasizing the importance of considering the potential risks of cannabis use.