King’s College London – Cannabis & Me
King’s College London, a renowned institution in the United Kingdom, is at the forefront of a monumental research project. They are helming the largest ever independent study into cannabis use, aiming to understand the intricacies and implications of this highly debated substance’s consumption. Known for its academic rigor, integrity, and bold approach to unraveling the world’s most profound mysteries, King’s College London is the perfect organization to undertake this significant study. The study focuses on cannabis, a substance that has long been the subject of controversy and debate. Cannabis is known for its psychoactive properties, but it’s also recognized for its potential therapeutic benefits in managing a range of health conditions, including chronic pain, multiple sclerosis symptoms, and some mental health disorders. Yet, despite its widespread use and potential benefits, the risks, particularly relating to mental health, are not fully understood. King’s College London’s study is distinctive in that it is the largest independent study ever conducted on cannabis use. This means the study is free from any form of influence, either from the government, pharmaceutical companies, or pro-cannabis groups. Therefore, the results are expected to be unbiased, presenting a comprehensive and reliable perspective on cannabis use. The research aims to delve into the heart of the matter, scrutinizing the potential effects of cannabis on mental health, its possible benefits, and the dangers of its misuse. The researchers will employ cutting-edge technology and sophisticated research methods to ensure the accuracy and relevance of their findings. They will use a combination of clinical trials, surveys, and other data collection methods in the quest to unravel the truth about this widely used and often demonized substance. King’s College London’s research hopes to shed light on the often polarized and politicized discussions around cannabis. Through the provision of accurate, empirical data, it aims to contribute to evidence-based policy-making, enabling regulators to make informed decisions about the legal status of cannabis. This research project is a testament to King’s College London’s commitment to advancing knowledge and contributing to society. By spearheading this significant study, they continue to uphold their reputation as a leading global institution of higher learning, driving forward the boundaries of human knowledge and understanding. In conclusion, King’s College London’s groundbreaking study promises to deepen our understanding of cannabis use, bringing clarity to a topic often shrouded in controversy. Their pioneering approach, combined with their commitment to independent research, makes this project a milestone in the ongoing debate surrounding cannabis. Through this study, King’s College London continues to implement its mission of fostering academic excellence and transforming societal perspectives through rigorous, unbiased research.
The Medical Research Council has allocated over £2.5 million of funding to Cannabis & Me, a scientific study into the effects of cannabis on the human brain.
The largest independent study of its kind, Cannabis & Me will explore the environmental and biological factors that explain the different effects people experience when using cannabis.
The study, helmed by the esteemed Dr. Marta Di Forti, aims to delve into the intricate connection between an individual’s biological configuration and the impact cannabis has on them. Notably, the research project will employ a comprehensive blend of methodologies. This includes DNA genetic and epigenetics testing, an array of psychological and cognitive analysis protocols, and advanced virtual reality technology. The ultimate goal of this multifaceted research endeavor is to unravel the nexus between a user’s biological makeup and the effect the use of cannabis has on their health and overall well-being. Dr. Di Forti and her team plan to meticulously scrutinize the interplay between various factors. They hypothesize that this complex interplay might shed light on how and why cannabis affects different individuals in distinct ways. Firstly, they will conduct DNA genetic and epigenetics testing. By studying the individual’s genetic composition and the changes that environmental factors bring about in gene expression, the team hopes to reveal the genetic predispositions that might affect an individual’s reaction to cannabis. Next, the team will undertake a comprehensive psychological and cognitive analysis. This will involve investigating the mental health history of the subjects, their behavioral tendencies, and cognitive abilities. The team will look for any patterns or correlations between these factors and the subjects’ reactions to cannabis use. Another novel approach of this study is the incorporation of virtual reality. The team will simulate various scenarios to evaluate how participants react to cannabis in different situations and environments. By analyzing their responses, the researchers hope to further their understanding of the drug’s effects on their mental and emotional states. A significant aspect of this study will be to identify the environmental factors, such as a history of trauma, that might interact with genetic and epigenetic markers to influence a person’s response to cannabis. The researchers postulate that these environmental elements, in conjunction with genetic predispositions and changes in gene expression, could make certain individuals more susceptible to mental health and social issues related to cannabis use. In effect, the study orchestrated by Dr. Di Forti seeks to shed light on the complex interrelationship between environmental influences, genetic and epigenetic markers, and the effects of cannabis on the human body and mind. By deciphering these intricate connections, the research has the potential to help predict which individuals are more likely to experience adverse mental health and social outcomes from cannabis use. This could pave the way for preventative measures, personalized treatment plans, and a deeper understanding of the multifaceted impact of cannabis on human health and society at large.
It’s estimated that over 200 million people worldwide use cannabis daily, yet we know very little about how it interacts with the human brain. With usage on the rise and legalisation potentially on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to understand the science behind the substance.
“Cannabis is consumed daily by many recreationally but also for medicinal reasons. But in the UK, the prescription of medicinal cannabis remains rare. Our study aims to provide data and tools that can make physicians in the UK and across the world more confident, where appropriate, in prescribing cannabis safely”
Dr Marta Di Forti, Senior Clinical Fellow at King’s IoPPN
As part of the study, Dr Di Forti is looking for 6,000 participants between the ages of 18-45 living in the London area that are either currently using cannabis or have used it less than 3 times or never before. The first step for participants is filling out a 40-minute survey online. More information can be found here.
In this story
Marta di Forti
Dr Marta Di Forti MD, MRCPsych, PhD
Clinical Reader in Psychosis Research
Cannabis & Me, which is led by King’s College London and funded by the Medical Research Council. It is the largest ever independent study into the effects of cannabis on the human brain12.
The study aims to explore the environmental and biological factors that explain the different effects people experience when using cannabis. It will use a combination of DNA genetic and epigenetics testing, psychological and cognitive analysis, and virtual reality to understand the link between a user’s biological makeup and the effect cannabis has on them12. The study will also try to identify the markers that are most likely to cause mental health and social problems in users2.
The study is looking for 6,000 participants between the ages of 18-45 living in the London area, who are either currently using cannabis or have used it less than three times or never before. The first step for participants is filling out a 40-minute survey online2. More information can be found on the study website.
Learn more:
1. bbc.com
2. kcl.ac.uk
3. kcl.ac.uk
The duration of the study depends on the group that the participant belongs to. For those who are currently using cannabis, the study will take about three hours in total, including the online survey, the face-to-face assessment, the blood sample, and the VR experience1. For those who have never used cannabis or have used it less than three times, the study will take about two hours in total, excluding the VR experience2.
The study is expected to run for two years, starting from September 20221. The researchers hope to publish their findings by 2024 and provide insights into the effects of cannabis on mental health and brain function2.
Learn more:
1. forbes.com
2. kcl.ac.uk
3. forbes.com
4. bbc.co.uk
What is the VR experience about?
Virtual Reality technology is increasingly becoming an integral part of scientific research, and one such application of VR is in the Cannabis & Me study. This pioneering study is dedicated to investigating the effects of cannabis usage on the human brain, specifically targeting its impact on various cognitive abilities. The primary objective is to comprehend the influence of marijuana on essential brain functions, and to achieve this, researchers have designed a highly immersive Virtual Reality experience. The VR experience serves to create an authentic simulation of a scenario where cannabis might typically be used, for instance, at a social gathering like a party or a pub. This setting is not chosen at random, but is intended to mirror real-life consumption patterns of cannabis users. The meticulous replication of these social settings is crucial in order to achieve as accurate a response as possible from the participants. The goal is to make the participants feel as if they are actually in these social environments, leading to genuine and relevant reactions. In the VR environment, participants are introduced to various types of cannabis products. They might encounter a traditional joint, different kinds of edibles like brownies or gummies, or even vapes, all infused with cannabis. Such a wide range of products is presented to ensure that the study encompasses the numerous ways that cannabis can be consumed, thereby accounting for the unique experiences each method might offer. Once the participants are exposed to these cannabis products in the VR experience, they are asked to rate their subjective feelings and sensations. In other words, they report how they feel physically and emotionally after the simulated use of cannabis. They might be asked about sensations of relaxation, euphoria, anxiety, or any other feelings they might be encountering. Thus, the experiment sheds light on the subjective effects of cannabis, which can be highly individual and variable, providing an in-depth understanding of the drug’s impact on users’ perceptions and experiences. But the VR experience doesn’t stop at merely tracking subjective feelings and sensations. The research ambitiously delves into another critical area – the cognitive abilities of the participants. While the participants are under the influence of cannabis, their memory, attention, and reaction time are tested. The aim here is to observe whether and how cannabis usage affects these cognitive functions. For instance, does the use of cannabis impair memory recall? Does it affect the ability to focus on tasks? Does it slow down the reaction time of the users? These are some of the questions that the VR experience seeks to answer. By studying these cognitive effects in a controlled VR setting, researchers can gain valuable insights into the neurological impacts of cannabis. Exploiting the power of Virtual Reality to simulate realistic scenarios, the Cannabis & Me study aims to uncover the various effects of cannabis on the human brain. By exploring subjective experiences and cognitive abilities, this research hopes to contribute to our understanding of this widely consumed yet complex substance.
The Virtual Reality (VR) experience is an exclusive opportunity, specifically offered only to individuals who are presently using cannabis. This stipulation is due to the fact that these individuals are more apt to have developed a certain level of tolerance to the substance, thereby making it less likely for them to encounter unpleasant or adverse effects. VR, being an immersive and intensely emotional experience, might be overbearing or even disorienting for those not familiar with the altered sensations that cannabis might introduce. As such, having a previous understanding and tolerance to cannabis can significantly aid in comfortably navigating the VR landscape. The duration of this unique VR experience is planned to be approximately one hour. Within this hour, participants will have the opportunity to engage in a wide range of virtual scenarios and environments, all while under the subtle influence of cannabis. The exact content of the VR experience can vary, but it is meticulously designed to be enriching, exciting, and intriguing for the participants. It is a rare opportunity to explore the shifting boundaries of perception and reality, which is something that VR technology, combined with the effects of cannabis, is uniquely poised to offer. The location chosen to conduct this singular experiment is none other than the esteemed King’s College London campus. This institution is renowned for its rigorous scientific research and cutting-edge facilities, thus making it an ideal location for such an avant-garde experiment. It’s important to note that the environment in which this VR experience takes place will be safe, controlled, and carefully monitored. The setting will be professional, with a team of researchers and medical professionals on hand to ensure the safety and well-being of the participants. Every measure will be taken to maintain a controlled environment, right from ensuring that the cannabis used is of the highest quality and does not contain any harmful substances, to controlling the VR content and monitoring the participants’ reactions throughout the experiment. In essence, the VR experience offered to the cannabis-using participants at King’s College London is an incredibly unique and potentially enlightening opportunity. It bridges the gap between technology and altered perception, while maintaining utmost safety and control. The experiment is a testament to the progressive nature of research at King’s College London and opens up an entirely new avenue for exploring the effects of cannabis within a VR setting.
Virtual Reality (VR), a cutting-edge technology predominantly known for its applications in entertainment and gaming, is now paving the way for ground-breaking research in the field of neuroscience, specifically concerning the study of cannabis and its effects on the human brain. This innovative tool, with its capability to generate immersive environments, offers a unique platform for scientists and researchers to extensively investigate how cannabis impacts neural activities. The interactive aspect of VR creates a controlled yet realistic environment, enabling researchers to perform comprehensive studies, observing firsthand the cognitive and behavioral changes induced by cannabis in a controlled setting. This breakthrough approach promises to offer a more holistic understanding of the subject matter, an aspect that traditional research methods would struggle to provide. A significant advantage of using VR technology in this context is its potential to help researchers understand the complex interplay of various factors such as genetics, environment, and personality traits, and how they influence an individual’s response to cannabis consumption. For instance, genetics play a pivotal role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to the potential benefits or risks of cannabis. Certain genetic predispositions may make some individuals more prone to the therapeutic effects of cannabis, while others may be at higher risk of developing detrimental side effects. Likewise, environmental factors and personality traits also contribute to the impact of cannabis on a person. The VR experience can replicate diverse environments and situations, providing researchers with valuable insights into how these elements affect the way one reacts to cannabis. At the same time, by taking into account personality characteristics, researchers can delve deeper into understanding how different personality types respond to cannabis. For example, an individual with a propensity for anxiety might react differently to cannabis compared to someone with a naturally calm disposition. The benefits and risks of cannabis use are a topic of ongoing debate, and comprehensive, objective research is vital to reach a conclusive understanding. The potential risks associated with cannabis use, including the possibility of addiction and adverse effects on mental health, are areas of concern. On the other hand, the possible benefits of cannabis, such as its potential role in pain management, anxiety reduction, and its use in treating certain medical conditions, are also areas of significant interest. In essence, the application of VR technology in studying the effects of cannabis on the human brain is an exciting prospect that opens up new avenues for research. It provides an invaluable tool for researchers to unravel the complexities of the human brain and how it responds to cannabis, considering all relevant factors. This innovative approach is expected to offer a more nuanced understanding of the potential risks and benefits of cannabis, thereby aiding in shaping future policies and guidelines related to its use.
Learn more:
1. forbes.com
2. kcl.ac.uk
3. wired.com
How will the study ensure privacy and confidentiality?
Privacy and confidentiality are important aspects of the Cannabis & Me study. According to the study website, the study will ensure the following measures to protect the participants’ data1:
The study will use a secure online platform to collect and store the participants’ information. The platform will encrypt the data and assign a unique code to each participant. The code will not reveal the participant’s identity or contact details.
The study will only share the participants’ data with the research team and other authorised parties, such as the Medical Research Council, King’s College London, and the NHS. The data will be used for research purposes only and will not be sold or transferred to any third parties.
The study will comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018, which are the laws that govern how personal data is processed in the UK. The study will also follow the ethical guidelines of King’s College London and the Health Research Authority.
The study will respect the participants’ rights to access, correct, delete, or withdraw their data at any time. The participants can contact the study team by email or phone to request any changes or queries regarding their data.
Learn more:
3. kcl.ac.uk
How can I contact the study team?
If you want to contact the study team of the Cannabis & Me project, you can use the following methods1:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 020 7848 5966
Address: Cannabis & Me, PO Box 7818, London, SE5 8RU
You can also visit the study website for more information and updates about the project. The website also has a FAQ section that might answer some of your queries.
Learn more:
3. kcl.ac.uk
4. nhs.uk
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What are some other studies on cannabis?
There are many studies on cannabis and its effects on various aspects of human health and well-being. Some of the recent and relevant studies are:
A study by King’s College London and the Medical Research Council, which is the largest ever independent study into the effects of cannabis on the human brain. It uses DNA testing, psychological analysis, and virtual reality to explore how different factors influence the response to cannabis and its potential risks and benefits1.
A study by NCCIH (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health), which is supporting several research projects on cannabis and cannabinoids, such as their effects on pain, inflammation, and thinking in people with chronic low-back pain, their synthesis in yeast, and their relationship with type 2 diabetes2.
A study by Live Science, which summarizes what researchers have learned about the health effects of cannabis over the past 20 years. It covers topics such as cannabis use and car accidents, dependence, psychosis, cognitive impairment, dropping out of school, and other illicit drug use3.
A study by CannaMD, which lists some of the top studies that prove the effectiveness of medical marijuana for various conditions, such as opioid-related deaths, cocaine use disorder, ALS, anxiety, PTSD, and cancer4.
A study by Daily Health Post, which provides over 100 cannabis cancer studies that show the anti-cancer properties of marijuana and its components, such as THC and CBD. It focuses on different types of cancer, such as brain, breast, lung, prostate, and skin cancer5.
These are some of the examples of the current research on cannabis and its implications for human health. If you want to learn more about any of these studies, you can visit their websites or read their full articles. I hope this information was interesting and helpful to you.
Learn more:
1. bmj.com
4. cannamd.com
7. doi.org
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How can I participate in a study on cannabis?
There are different ways to participate in a study on cannabis, depending on your eligibility, location, and interest. Here are some possible options:
You can search for ongoing clinical trials on cannabis and related topics on the NIH database. You can enter your search criteria, such as “marijuana” and your location, and see the list of studies that match your query. You can also contact the study coordinators for more information and to enroll as a volunteer1.
You can join the Cannabis & Me study, which is the largest ever independent study into the effects of cannabis on the human brain. It is led by King’s College London and funded by the Medical Research Council. It is looking for 6,000 participants between the ages of 18-45 living in the London area, who are either currently using cannabis or have used it less than three times or never before. The study will use DNA testing, psychological analysis, and virtual reality to explore how different factors influence the response to cannabis and its potential risks and benefits. You can visit the study website for more information and to fill out the online survey2.
You can participate in the SPACE study (Study on Physical Activity and Cannabis Effects), which is a new study that explores how marijuana affects workouts. It is conducted by researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder. It will enlist more than 50 paid adult volunteers who already mix cannabis and exercise for a study involving three sessions. In the first session, researchers will measure heart rate, have subjects answer a questionnaire and take some baseline fitness measurements. In the second session, participants will be asked to consume their own cannabis product at home and then complete a 30-minute exercise routine on a stationary bike in a lab. In the third session, participants will repeat the same procedure without consuming cannabis. The study will compare the effects of cannabis on exercise performance, mood, pain, and inflammation3.
You can check out other studies on cannabis that are conducted or supported by various institutions, such as universities, research centers, or government agencies. Some examples are:
Entitled “The Cannabis Disparity and Availability Study,” this comprehensive research endeavor is set to collect, scrutinize, and interpret a vast amount of data to investigate the presence or absence of discriminatory practices within the burgeoning cannabis industry of Illinois. The main objective of this study is to shed light on the extent to which discrimination pervades this rapidly growing sector, with an overarching aim of ensuring equality of opportunity and fostering a more inclusive and fair industry. In recent years, the cannabis industry in Illinois has experienced unprecedented growth, becoming a significant economic contributor. This fast-paced development has, however, spawned concerns about potential discrimination within the industry. To that end, “The Cannabis Disparity and Availability Study” has been commissioned to rigorously examine these concerns, drawing on a wide array of data to provide an exhaustive analysis. In this process, the study will collect data from various sources, including cannabis industry operators, employees, consumers, and other stakeholders. It will focus on areas such as hiring practices, promotional opportunities, wage disparities, and availability of cannabis products to different demographic groups. This data collection will occur across multiple stages, each meticulously designed to capture a comprehensive snapshot of the industry’s current state. Once the data collection process is complete, the study will move into the analysis phase. Here, the collected data will be interpreted with an aim to identify any existing patterns that may indicate discrimination. This could range from wage disparities between different demographic groups to unequal opportunities for advancement within the cannabis businesses. By identifying these patterns, the study hopes to uncover any hidden biases or systemic issues that might be contributing to inequality within the industry. Following the meticulous analysis, a comprehensive report based on the findings will be compiled. This report will detail whether discrimination exists in the Illinois cannabis industry, the extent of such discrimination, and the groups most affected by it. It will also recommend steps that stakeholders can take to remedy these issues, should they exist. In conclusion, “The Cannabis Disparity and Availability Study” is an ambitious, far-reaching, and essential undertaking. It not only seeks to identify any discrimination within the Illinois cannabis industry but also aims to contribute to the broader discourse on equality and inclusivity within society. By delving into this critical and timely issue, the study aspires to play a significant role in making the cannabis industry a more equitable and just space for all.
The Journal of Cannabis Research is a highly prestigious and internationally recognized scientific publication that is fully open access. This means that all published content is freely accessible to all interested readers, researchers, and scholars worldwide without any financial or other barriers. By providing open access, the journal ensures that crucial research findings and insights about cannabis are widely disseminated and available to those who can benefit from them the most. Not only does this promote the global sharing of knowledge, but it also fosters the collaborative advancement of scientific understanding and innovation in cannabis research. As a peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Cannabis Research upholds the highest standards of academic rigor and integrity. Every article that is submitted for publication undergoes a meticulous review process by experts in the field who critically evaluate the validity, significance, and originality of the research. These expert reviewers provide constructive feedback and make recommendations for improvement, ensuring that only the most robust, credible, and impactful research is published. This rigorous peer-review process underpins the journal’s commitment to quality and excellence, contributing to its reputation as a leading source of authoritative and reliable information on cannabis research. The Journal of Cannabis Research is also notable for the breadth and diversity of topics it covers. The journal welcomes submissions on all aspects of cannabis, from its cultivation, extraction, and processing to its physiological and psychological effects, medicinal uses, and societal implications. Whether it’s cutting-edge research on the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in treating various diseases, in-depth studies on the genetic diversity and optimization of cannabis crops, analytical investigations on the chemical composition and potency of cannabis products, or sociological research on the legal, cultural, and public health aspects of cannabis use, the journal provides a dedicated platform for the publication of all facets of cannabis research. This comprehensive approach allows for a multidimensional understanding of cannabis and its many roles in society, health, and industry. Furthermore, the inclusive nature of The Journal of Cannabis Research extends to its ethos of championing diverse voices and perspectives from within the global cannabis research community. It actively encourages submissions from researchers of all backgrounds, disciplines, and stages of career development, fostering a culture of inclusivity and openness that enriches the breadth and depth of its content. In sum, The Journal of Cannabis Research is a globally respected, fully open access, peer-reviewed scientific journal that provides an invaluable platform for the dissemination of rigorous, high-quality research on all aspects of cannabis. By promoting open access, upholding academic rigor, fostering diversity and inclusivity, and embracing a wide range of research topics, the journal plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of cannabis and driving progress in cannabis research.
The Institute of Cannabis Research, an esteemed organization in the field of cannabis studies, was launched in the year 2016. This establishment came to existence as a result of a pioneering collaborative venture among three critical parties – Colorado State University Pueblo, the state of Colorado, and Pueblo County. Each of these entities brought something unique to the table, fueling the creation of an institution that would lead the path in cannabis research. Colorado State University Pueblo, a public university renowned for its diverse academic programs and research initiatives, was a key stakeholder in the formation of the Institute of Cannabis Research. This reputable educational institution, situated in the heart of Pueblo, Colorado, was instrumental in contributing essential academic resources and providing a conducive environment for the growth and development of the institute. The involvement of the university marked its commitment towards furthering research in emerging fields, such as cannabis studies, therefore, strengthening its position as a hub of innovation and learning. On the other hand, the state of Colorado, where the legalization of marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes occurred relatively early, was eager to explore the potential benefits and impacts of cannabis. The state’s involvement in setting up the Institute of Cannabis Research represented its ongoing commitment to informed policy-making, based on scientific data and research. Colorado, with its progressive stance on cannabis use, became an ideal location for the establishment of such an institute, providing it with the necessary legislative support and access to a wide-ranging network of researchers and study subjects. Furthermore, Pueblo County, known for its rich agricultural history and commitment to sustainable practices, played a critical role in this collaborative venture. The county’s involvement offered invaluable insights into the cultivation aspects of cannabis, considering its long-standing experience with farming and crop management. Pueblo County’s participation also ensured that the local community would be actively involved in the institute’s activities, fostering a healthy relationship between academia and the public. The establishment of the Institute of Cannabis Research in 2016, thus, marked a significant milestone in the study of cannabis. The innovative partnership between Colorado State University Pueblo, the state of Colorado, and Pueblo County led to the creation of a world-class institution dedicated to researching the multifaceted aspects of cannabis, from its medical applications to its societal implications. This partnership highlighted the power of collaboration in driving progress and knowledge in an emerging field such as cannabis research.
These are some of the ways to participate in a study on cannabis. I hope this information was helpful to you.
Learn more:
3. jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com
4. jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com
5. colorado.edu
7. ljmu.ac.uk