Dysregulation of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Correlates with Increased Obesity

The influence of the fatty acid amide hydrolase 385C_A single nucleotide polymorphisms on obesity susceptibility

In Summary

A recent study has revealed the positive correlation of fatty acid amine hydrolase (FAAH) polymorphisms with increased obesity rates in Iranian women. FAAH is a regulatory enzyme in the endocannabinoid system that is important for the inactivation of endogenous cannabinoids and has previously been associated with the obese phenotype. It was specifically found that two different genotypes of the 385 C/A polymorphism of FAAH increased the probability of obesity risk almost two times. Further research should focus on the possible screening of polymorphisms of the FAAH enzyme in order to advise those at an increased risk of developing obesity, and perhaps developing a weight management medication that targets FAAH and the endocannabinoid system. 

The “munchies” is a well-known side effect of cannabis consumption popularized by derogatory or humorous characterizations of chronic cannabis users, such as stoner/surfer Jeff Spicoli in Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Cannabinoids and terpenes have been shown to have various effects on weight management and appetite stimulation, including appetite suppression. Cannabis-based medication to aid in the recovery of anorexia nervosa are currently being researched due to the anxiolytic effects and appetite stimulation, but some terpenes like humulene have recently been featured for their appetite suppressant capabilities. Further research should be conducted to fully develop the various weight management medications that cannabis has the ability to produce. 

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