The consumption of cannabis would indeed lead in some individuals to a change in social behavior. In particular, a decrease in interactions with the outside would be observed. French and Spanish scientists from the National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm) and the University of Salamanca believe they have identified the cerebral process causing the phenomenon in mice.
Their study published in Nature this Wednesday notably highlights the role of receptors present in certain cells of the central nervous system. Cannabis has reportedly caused a slowdown in the activity of these cells, called astrocytes, in rodents.
A track to fight against behavioral problems linked to cannabis
However, the latter are notably responsible for transforming blood glucose into lactate, a substance which feeds neurons and enables them to function. "The drop in sociability sometimes associated with cannabis use is the consequence of an alteration of the glucose metabolism in the brain," summarizes Giovanni Marsicano, co-responsible for the study.
The researchers' discoveries could have repercussions beyond explaining the phenomenon of withdrawal. They offer "new avenues of research to find therapeutic solutions to overcome some of the behavioral problems resulting from exposure to cannabis," said the Bordeaux specialist.
Experts now intend to continue their work to identify the potential harmful effects of cannabis. They thus wish to offer a maximum of information to health professionals in the context of a therapeutic use of this drug.
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