How Your Genes (DNA) Affect Your Response to Cannabis

Cannabis can bring on very different experiences for people. For example, it may induce sleep, modify the way we connect with others, alter how we see the world, or lessen the symptoms of crippling illnesses. Furthermore, even if various cannabis products have different effects, it’s fascinating to note that different people might react differently to the same cannabis product.

For example, depending on marijuana sensitivity and individual responses to it, some people may be unaffected when a joint is passed around a group of friends, while others may become intoxicated even if they don’t imbibe. This may largely be determined by our DNA (or genes).

All living things are built according to their genes. The human genome, or our whole collection of DNA, is made up of about 20,000 genes. A 99.7% genomic similarity exists between any two persons. However, the final 0.3% is what counts. So let’s take a look at how your genes affect your response to cannabis and why.

Endocannabinoid Receptor Mutations

The CB1 and CB2 receptors are the primary targets and processes via which cannabis acts on the body and brain. They are proteins constructed within our cells using instructions found in our DNA, just like all other proteins our bodies produce. Despite the apparent similarity among individuals in the human genome (the collection of all human genes), these blueprints are prevalent with random or hereditary edits (also called mutations). For example, inherited disorders are frequently caused by genetic mutations. And this can also explain certain variations in people’s responses to cannabis.

More than ten years ago, the first mutations in the human CB1 receptor —THC’s primary target and the location of cannabis intoxication—were discovered. According to current research, this gene exists in humans in 15 different forms. The function of the protein is virtually always impacted when the protein’s blueprints are changed.

This implies that you are carrying one of at least 15 distinct CB1 receptor protein variants around with you right now! A CB1 mutation may significantly alter your sensitivity to the chemicals that bind to it (like THC). This may help to explain why one person may be more or less sensitive to the effects of cannabis intoxication than the other 14 people who are also smoking the joint.

Another example of how your DNA affects your response to cannabis is Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency. This hereditary condition shows that chronic illnesses, including fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, and migraines, are caused by decreased production of endocannabinoids and receptors in the body. Your body’s reaction to cannabis might also be affected by this endocannabinoid system dysfunction. If you have the CECD gene, you would need to ingest more cannabis to have the same effects as someone without the gene. Otherwise, you wouldn’t feel the effects, rendering the dosage ineffective.

Non-Endocannabinoid Gene Mutations

The genes responsible for our endogenous cannabinoid system are not the only ones affected by genetic abnormalities that impact the cannabis experience. For instance, some individuals have Akt gene mutations which is not an endocannabinoid-specific gene. This gene, which is linked to many different forms of cancer, can prevent cells from degenerating and slow tissue development. A 2014 study published by Cambridge University Press concluded that after taking cannabis, those with this mutation are more likely to make poor decisions and improper movements. This means that an Akt mutation alters how cannabinoids affect the person.

The liver has an additional significant variance not related to the endocannabinoid system. When cannabis is used orally, it must first pass the digestive tract and liver before the cannabinoids enter the bloodstream and brain. The liver is home to many enzymes, which are once again proteins encoded by our DNA and used to break down various drugs and chemicals. A prominent liver enzyme transforms delta-9-THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is considerably more effective in triggering the CB1 receptor and producing intoxication. The effectiveness and variety of our liver activities vary widely between individuals, which may influence how we react to edible cannabis.

Your Ever-Changing DNA

The genetic changes that affect how we react to cannabis may already be there at birth, but they can also develop as a result of daily living. Frequently during our everyday lives, in response to numerous stimuli, genes are switched on and off (invading viruses, diet, stress, you name it). Soon, doing a quick DNA test (by swabbing the inside of your cheek) could be feasible to learn more about your genes, how to treat specific hereditary problems, and what effects cannabis use might have on you.

*The statements made within this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These statements and the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.