Nematode worms get the ‘munchies’ after having cannabis-like substance

1 year ago 98

Life

Just like people, the simple nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans is driven to consume high-calorie food when its cannabinoid receptors are activated, hinting at a common signalling pathway for preventing starvation

By Alice Klein

Nematode worms seek out high-calorie food after they consume a cannabis-like substance, much like people who get the “munchies” after smoking marijuana.

The finding suggests that cannabis hijacks an important mechanism that has been conserved across the animal kingdom to help regulate appetite.

In people, smoking or ingesting marijuana can lead to strong food cravings, particularly for high-calorie snacks like chocolate bars, a tendency known as the munchies.

…

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 14th June 2023.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

Existing subscribers