A recent study conducted by researchers at Washington State University has shed light on the phenomenon known as the “munchies,” a well-known side effect of consuming cannabis. The study, which was federally funded, found that cannabis activates cells in the hypothalamus region of the brain, leading to an increase in appetite in mice that had been exposed to vaporized marijuana.
Using a groundbreaking technique called calcium imaging, which is similar to an MRI scan of the brain, the researchers were able to observe how brain cells in mice reacted to cannabis smoke. They discovered that cannabis activated a specific set of cells in the hypothalamus when the mice anticipated and consumed palatable food. This activation was not seen in mice that had not been exposed to cannabis.
“This study provides valuable insight into one of the ways that the brain responds to recreational cannabis, particularly in promoting appetite,” explained Jon Davis, assistant professor of neuroscience at the university.
The hypothalamus, an area deep inside the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating basic bodily functions, showed increased activity in response to cannabis. Neurons that are typically inactive were found to be activated when mice were given cannabis.
While it has long been known that cannabis can stimulate appetite, especially in individuals undergoing chemotherapy, the mechanisms behind this effect have remained elusive. Previous attempts to isolate specific components of the cannabis plant to stimulate appetite have often been unsuccessful.
The researchers built upon previous work that had identified arcuate nucleus neurons within the mediobasal hypothalamus as being involved in regulating feeding behavior.
This study utilized vaporized cannabis instead of injected THC in animal studies, making it one of the pioneering experiments of its kind.
Funding for the study was provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Program, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, and Washington State Initiative 171.
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