Research Identifies 2 Genes That May Affect Your Interest in Cannabis

Genetics and Cannabis Use

The genes we inherit might subtly influence our likelihood of trying and consistently using cannabis.

A research team, which included experts from Western University in Canada and UC San Diego, collaborated with the biotech firm 23andMe to analyze the full genomes of 131,895 individuals alongside their self-reported cannabis usage frequency.

They discovered variations in two significant genetic sequences linked to cannabis use and connected them to over a hundred physical and mental health traits. This suggests potential links between drug use and overall wellbeing.

Many aspects impact whether someone uses drugs for self-medication or recreation—factors like their environment or financial situation. Genetics often plays an indirect role, making some individuals more likely to use substances, even in the face of risks.

“While most individuals who try cannabis don’t develop dependence, some studies indicate nearly 30 percent might,” notes Sandra Sanchez-Roige, a psychiatry professor at UC San Diego.

“Understanding the genetics behind initial behaviors could help identify those at higher risk, which can lead to better prevention and intervention strategies.”

The first gene of interest is Cell Adhesion Molecule 2 (CADM2), which is involved in cell assembly and nerve cell communication. New findings link it to lifetime cannabis use and its frequency.

Another gene, Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 3 (GRM3), also seems relevant as it plays a role in neuron signaling and brain plasticity and is associated with various psychiatric disorders.

While CADM2 has previously been linked to cannabis use, this marks the first time GRM3 has been associated with cannabis. Future research could explore how these new DNA variations affect these genes’ functions.

The team also compared their findings with other genetic variations, finding links to conditions like anxiety, depression, cognitive function, and diabetes.

“We demonstrated that the genetics of using cannabis—both trying it and habitual use—connect with genetics related to other psychiatric traits and even physical health issues,” Sanchez-Roige explains.

Although the data is meaningful, it shows that any genetic influence is relatively minor in comparison to other contributing factors. Genetics accounts for just under 13 percent of the differences in whether someone has tried cannabis and around 6 percent of differences in usage frequency.

By examining the similarities in genetic variations and their relationship to both the likelihood and frequency of cannabis use, researchers could better evaluate individual risks.