Cannabis Use Linked to Epigenetic Changes, Study Indicates

A recent study involving over 1,000 adults suggests that cannabis use may lead to changes in the human epigenome. The epigenome behaves like a set of switches that can activate or deactivate genes, thereby influencing bodily functions.

Epidemiologist Lifang Hou from Northwestern University stated, "We observed associations between cumulative marijuana use and multiple epigenetic markers across time" when the research was published in 2023.

With 49 percent of Americans having tried cannabis at least once, researchers emphasize the significance of understanding its health effects. Some states and countries have legalized cannabis, yet its impact on health remains not fully understood.

Researchers analyzed data from approximately 1,000 adults who participated in a long-term study assessing cannabis use over 20 years. Participants, aged 18 to 30 at baseline, provided blood samples at two intervals: 15 years and 20 years later.

The study focused on epigenetic changes, particularly DNA methylation levels, based on blood samples collected five years apart. DNA methylation, which involves the addition or removal of methyl groups, is a widely studied epigenetic modification. These modifications do not alter the genetic sequence but affect gene activity, making it harder for cells to interpret genetic instructions.

Environmental and lifestyle factors can influence methylation changes, which might be inherited by future generations. Blood biomarkers offer insights into both recent and previous exposures to substances, including cannabis.

Previously, Hou and her team found connections between marijuana use and the aging process as indicated by DNA methylation. This time they aimed to explore specific epigenetic factors related to cannabis and their potential health outcomes.

The comprehensive data facilitated estimates of cannabis use over time alongside analysis of DNA methylation markers within participants' blood. The results showed numerous methylation markers in the 15-year blood samples: 22 were associated with recent use and 31 with cumulative use. In the samples taken 20 years later, researchers identified 132 markers linked to recent use and 16 linked to cumulative use.

Interestingly, one marker was consistently associated with both tobacco and cannabis use. "This suggests potential shared epigenetic regulation between tobacco and marijuana," noted Hou.

Additionally, several epigenetic changes linked to cannabis had previously been related to cellular proliferation, hormone signaling, and various neurological disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

However, it is vital to clarify that this research does not establish a direct causal relationship between cannabis use and these health complications.

Epidemiologist Drew Nannini added, "This research has provided novel insights into the association between marijuana use and epigenetic factors." He emphasized the need for further studies across diverse populations and exploring marijuana's long-term effects on health, especially in relation to age-related outcomes.

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