A drug that bolsters the body's cannabis-like chemicals can ease anxiety in mice, according to a new study that suggests the same brain chemistry influences how people cope with stress.
The body releases chemicals called endocannabinoids, so named because they act on the brain in almost the same way as cannabis, or marijuana, does. Much like marijuana, endocannabinoids promote relaxation. The new research finds that by halting the enzyme that breaks down an endocannabinoid called andamide, scientists can quickly train mice to get over traumatic experiences.
More importantly, people whose genes ultimately produce less of the andamide-eating enzyme have an easier time remaining cool under pressure, the researchers report today (June 12) in the journal Molecular Psychiatry.
Posts
