Scientists Discover The Exact Reason Marijuana Causes The ‘Munchies’ In New Federally Funded Study

For the first time, scientists have discovered the precise neurological effects of marijuana consumption that lead to the phenomenon known as the “munchies,” as revealed by a groundbreaking study supported by federal funding.

Researchers at Washington State University (WSU) have published their findings in the journal Scientific Reports, shedding light on how cannabis activates a specific cluster of neurons in the hypothalamus region of the brain, thereby stimulating appetite.

The hunger-inducing effects of marijuana are familiar to consumers, but recent animal research findings now provide valuable insights that can potentially pave the way for targeted therapeutics aimed at addressing conditions like anorexia and obesity.

High Mice

After exposing mice to vaporized cannabis, the researchers utilized calcium imaging technology, akin to a brain MRI, to monitor the changes in neuron activity. Through their investigation, they discovered that marijuana vapor attached to cannabinoid-1 receptors in the brain and activated Agouti Related Protein neurons in the hypothalamus, commonly known as “feeding” neurons.

“The appetite promoting effects of cannabis sativa have been recognized for centuries, however, surprisingly, the biological mechanisms that underlie this process have remained largely unknown.”

“When the mice are given cannabis, neurons come on that typically are not active,” Jon Davis, an assistant professor of neuroscience at WSU, said in a press release on Tuesday. “There is something important happening in the hypothalamus after vapor cannabis.”

It’s FN Science

In scientific terms, the study revealed that activating CB1R pharmacologically reduced the inhibitory synaptic tone on hunger-promoting Agouti Related Peptide (AgRP) neurons within the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH).

“Based on these results, we conclude that MBH neurons contribute to the appetite stimulatory properties of inhaled cannabis,” the authors said.

In other words… Cannabis activates specific hunger neurons in brain.

The discovery is detailed in the Journal Scientific Reports

Thanks for the info WSU but spend some more taxpayer’s money on why it makes food taste so much better!!

Read More Here – Cannabis activates specific hunger neurons in brain.

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