Marijuana can produce very different psychological effects. For some people, it brings calm or euphoria. For others, especially after consuming large amounts, it can trigger paranoia, anxiety, or panic. Although research has linked regular marijuana consumption with an increased likelihood of anxiety, the biological reasons behind these reactions remain poorly understood.
A new study from Northwestern University researchers offers a possible explanation. Scientists found evidence in mice that cannabinoids can interfere with a group of brain cells involved in controlling responses to danger, potentially helping explain why some marijuana users experience severe anxiety.
The research focused on the central amygdala, a region of the brain involved in processing anxiety and fear. Researchers examined somatostatin neurons, a particular type of cell within the region, to determine how they respond when animals encounter a threatening situation while under the influence of a cannabinoid.
The team administered different amounts of CP55940 to mice, a compound that activates cannabinoid receptors in much the same way as THC, the principal psychoactive element in marijuana. The animals were then exposed to fox urine smell, an odor that naturally signals danger to mice.
As the concentration of the drug increased, the animals displayed stronger defensive behavior. Some attempted to escape, while others remained motionless in response to the threatening scent.
Researchers then monitored activity in the animals’ central amygdala using miniature microscopes attached to their heads. They discovered that somatostatin neurons became particularly active when cannabinoid exposure was combined with the stressful odor.
Further experiments pointed to a possible explanation. Cannabinoids appeared to reduce the discharge of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps limit excessive activity in the brain. According to the researchers, weakening this inhibitory system may effectively remove some of the restraint normally placed on fear-related circuits.
After suppressing somatostatin neuron activity, the researchers found that the mice showed less avoidance of the threatening odor. The findings indicate that these brain cells may directly contribute to the stronger defensive reaction observed after cannabinoid exposure.
Neuroscientist Ozge Gunduz-Cinar described the results as strong evidence of a causal connection. However, she cautioned that the experiment examined one cell population in one brain area and relied on an inherent fear test.
Whether the same process occurs in people remains uncertain. Human studies involving controlled marijuana exposure and fear-related brain activity would raise significant ethical concerns. Still, the researchers say the findings could eventually help scientists develop better approaches for reducing severe anxiety associated with marijuana use.
As the scientific community works to understand why some marijuana users develop paranoia while others don’t, it helps to moderate cannabis use as licensed entities, such as Aurora Cannabis Corp. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB), usually caution their customers to do.
About CNW420
CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.
To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer
CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com
CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN
