Study Confirms Cannabis Hurts Short Term Memory | Marijuana.com
A study by a two neuroscientists have confirmed not only what any stoner has known since his or her first toke, but exactly why marijuana use affects short term memory.
…this common side effect occurs because of a previously unknown signalling mechanism between neurons and non-neuronal cells called astrocytes.
The star-shaped astrocytes have long been considered nothing more than support cells that protect neurons. “Our study provides compelling evidence that astrocytes control neurons and memory,” says Zhang. “The supporting actor has become the leading actor.”
The psychoactive ingredient of marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Using microelectrodes implanted into the brains of anaesthetized rats, the researchers found that the compound weakens the connections, or synapses, between neurons in the hippocampus, a structure that is crucial for memory formation. [Nature]
The neuroscientists used lab rats in their study, so it’s impossible for this conclusion to be completely valid, no matter how the study splices it. Sure, it’s not exactly a novel discovery, but if you’re keen on science, it’s a neat read and a purportedly important development
A study by a two neuroscientists have confirmed not only what any stoner has known since his or her first toke, but exactly why marijuana use affects short term memory.
…this common side effect occurs because of a previously unknown signalling mechanism between neurons and non-neuronal cells called astrocytes.
The star-shaped astrocytes have long been considered nothing more than support cells that protect neurons. “Our study provides compelling evidence that astrocytes control neurons and memory,” says Zhang. “The supporting actor has become the leading actor.”
The psychoactive ingredient of marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Using microelectrodes implanted into the brains of anaesthetized rats, the researchers found that the compound weakens the connections, or synapses, between neurons in the hippocampus, a structure that is crucial for memory formation. [Nature]
The neuroscientists used lab rats in their study, so it’s impossible for this conclusion to be completely valid, no matter how the study splices it. Sure, it’s not exactly a novel discovery, but if you’re keen on science, it’s a neat read and a purportedly important development
