Lead: The conserved endocannabinoid anandamide modulates olfactory sensitivity to induce hedonic feeding in C. elegansLead: The conserved endocannabinoid anandamide modulates olfactory sensitivity to induce hedonic feeding in C. elegans
This Week in Addiction Medicine from ASAM
Lead Story: The conserved endocannabinoid anandamide modulates olfactory sensitivity to induce hedonic feeding in C. elegans Current Biology Laboratory worm Caenorhabditis elegans apparently gets the ‘munchies’ when exposed to cannabis. After soakin...
6:38•2 May 2023
Worms and Weed: Uncovering the Science Behind Addiction Behaviors
Episode Overview
- The lead story explores the influence of the endocannabinoid anandamide on olfactory sensitivity in C. elegans, shedding light on evolutionary implications for humans.
- Studies on e-cigarette menthol flavoring and an oral probiotic's potential impact on alcohol tolerance offer intriguing insights into substance use health effects.
- Insights on fatal overdose antecedents and the expansion of treatment access for stimulant use disorder highlight critical interventions in addiction medicine.
- The ethical challenges of treating opioid use disorder in incarcerated patients raise thought-provoking questions about medical ethics and patient care.
- The episode delivers a diverse range of topics, each shedding light on crucial developments and challenges in the field of addiction medicine.
“This shared trait between worms and humans points to deep evolutionary origin of cannabinoid receptors and behaviors influenced by the molecules.”
Ever wondered how deep our biological roots in addiction might go? This episode of 'The Week in Addiction Medicine' takes a fascinating dive into the world of C. elegans, tiny worms that exhibit 'munchies' behavior when exposed to cannabis. Hosted by Claire Rasmussen, the episode reveals how the conserved endocannabinoid anandamide affects these worms' olfactory sensitivity, making them prefer nutrient-rich bacteria over poor ones.
This intriguing study highlights the evolutionary origins of cannabinoid receptors and their influence on behavior, suggesting that our responses to cannabis might be more ancient than we think. But that's not all. Claire also discusses the impact of menthol flavoring in e-cigarettes, an oral probiotic's potential to lessen alcohol's effects, and the ethical challenges of treating opioid use disorder in incarcerated patients.
If you're curious about the latest innovations and research in addiction medicine, this episode is packed with insights that will both inform and surprise you.
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