FeaturedNeuroscience·October 21, 2025·5 min readTobacco and Cannabis Together Alter Brain’s “Bliss Molecule” SystemPeople who use both cannabis and tobacco show unique brain chemistry linked to higher anxiety, depression, and difficulty quitting. Brain scans revealed increased levels of FAAH, an enzyme that breaks down the brain’s “bliss molecule,” anandamide.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·January 19, 2023·4 min readHeavy Drinking in Young Adults Tied to Endocannabinoid PathwayBrain levels of FAAH, an enzyme that degrades a neurotransmitter that activates the cannabinoid 1 receptor, may contribute to the maintenance of excessive drinking and susceptibility to alcohol use disorder.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurosciencePsychology·February 12, 2020·4 min readStudy links human gene variant to THC reward in adolescent femalesA variant of the FAAH gene increases vulnerability to THC in females and has a larger-scale impact on brain regions responsible for reward processing.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscienceOpen Neuroscience ArticlesPsychology·August 29, 2019·5 min readNew medication may be able to improve effects of psychological treatment for PTSDFatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors, a form of medication that boosts endocannabinoids, may be helpful in the treatment of PTSD. FAAH inhibition can improve the recall of fear extinction memories. The drugs could also help treat stress and other psychological disorders.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurosciencePsychology·April 25, 2019·4 min readCannabis addiction influenced by genetic make-upPeople with the specific genotype of the Cannabinoid receptor 1 gene may be more prone to cannabis use disorder. Researchers report those with FAAH rs324420 A continue to want more marijuana following use and are more drawn to cannabis-related imagery while under the influence of the drug.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscienceOpen Neuroscience ArticlesPain·March 29, 2019·5 min readWoman with novel gene mutation lives almost pain-freeA rare genetic mutation has been associated with pain insensitivity. The findings could further research into new treatments to target pain.Read More
