In research published in March, Scientists have discovered evidence that Marijuana can cause short term memory loss.
It has long been suspected that Marijuana causes, users to suffer from short term memory lapse, and forgetfulness. However scientists could never find out what the reason for this was.
Most users would agree that the ability to retain and use information over short periods of time, has been an unwanted side affect of the herb Marijuana. Not all users would agree however.
Canadian Scientists carried out a series of experiments on lab mice, giving them THC, the psychoactive ingredient of marijuana, to come up with a theory about the link between astrocyte signalling and cognitive function.
In the research published in the Journal Cell Neuroscientists Giovanni Marsicano of the University of Bordeaux, France, and Xia Zhang of the University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research now show that this common side effect occurs because of a previously unknown signalling mechanism between neurons and non-neuronal cells called astrocytes.
The psychoactive ingredient in 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.
The Scientists are studying the Medical benefits of THC, and how it can be used as a pharmaceutical drug.
