Forget just getting mind trip, smoking high potent weed makes DNA flying too

Imagine a realm where the effects of cannabis extend beyond the mind, reaching deep into your DNA.

As potent strains of weed become increasingly popular, new research reveals that these powerful substances may not only elevate your mood but also influence genetic expression.

This intriguing intersection of cannabis and genetics invites us to explore how the highs of today can spark transformations at a molecular level, promising a future where smoking weed could truly change the essence of who we are.

DNA and weed

High-potency cannabis use leaves a distinct mark on DNA, according to new research by the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King’s College London and the University of Exeter.

Published in Molecular Psychiatry, this is the first study to suggest that the use of high-potency cannabis (defined as having THC content of 10 percent or greater) leaves a distinct mark on DNA, providing valuable insights into the biological impact of cannabis use.

The research also showed the effect of cannabis use on DNA is different in people experiencing their first episode of psychosis compared to users who have never experienced psychosis, suggesting there could be potential for DNA blood tests to help characterize those cannabis users at risk of developing psychosis to inform preventative approaches.

With the increasing prevalence of cannabis use and more availability of high potency cannabis, there is a pressing need better to understand its biological impact, particularly on mental health, said Professor Marta Di Forti, Professor of Drugs, Genes and Psychosis at King’s IoPPN and senior author of the study.

“Our study is the first to show high potency cannabis leaves a unique signature on DNA related to mechanisms around the immune system and energy production. Future research needs to explore if the DNA signature for current cannabis use, and in particular the one of high potency types, can help identify those users most at risk to develop psychosis, both in recreational and medicinal use settings.”

Alters DNA sequencing

Researchers explored the effects of cannabis use on DNA methylation, a chemical process detected in blood samples that alters how genes function (whether they are switched ‘on’ or ‘off’).

DNA methylation is a type of epigenetic change that alters gene expression without affecting the DNA sequence itself and is considered a vital factor in the interplay between risk factors and mental health.

The laboratory team at the University of Exeter conducted complex analyses of DNA methylation across the whole human genome using blood samples from both people who have experienced first-episode psychosis and those who have never had a psychotic experience.

The researchers investigated the impact of current cannabis use, including frequency and potency, on the DNA of a total of 682 participants.

The analysis showed that frequent users of high-potency cannabis had changes in genes related to mitochondrial and immune function, particularly the CAVIN1 gene, which could affect energy and immune response.

These changes were not explained by the well-established impact that tobacco has on DNA methylation, which is usually mixed into joints by most cannabis users.

Dr Emma Dempster, senior lecturer at the University of Exeter and the study’s first author, said this is the first study to show that frequent use of high-potency cannabis leaves a distinct molecular mark on DNA, particularly affecting genes related to energy and immune function.

“Our findings provide important insights into how cannabis use may alter biological processes. DNA methylation, which bridges the gap between genetics and environmental factors, is a key mechanism that allows external influences, such as substance use, to impact gene activity. These epigenetic changes, shaped by lifestyle and exposures, offer a valuable perspective on how cannabis use may influence mental health through biological pathways.”