Ole Miss Researching Effects of Cannabis Use During Pregnancy
OXFORD – A group of scientists at the University of Mississippi is diving deep into a topic that raises many questions—how cannabis use during pregnancy affects development. Toxicologist Kristine Willett and neuroscientist Nicole Ashpole received over $2.2 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study the impact of cannabinoids—both natural and synthetic—on zebrafish, which have similarities to human biology.
Understanding the Concern
Many expectant mothers are exploring cannabis as a remedy for issues like nausea and vomiting. According to Ashpole, this exploration leads to a common belief: “People think, ‘Well, cannabis is safe.’” However, current research does not fully support that assumption. There is growing evidence that cannabis use might influence child development, which makes this study particularly relevant.
Statistics indicate that the use of cannabis among pregnant women is increasing. In a recent survey, the percentage of American women reporting cannabis use during their pregnancies surged from 3.4% in 2002 to 7% in 2017. Many women believe they are using it to alleviate morning sickness. However, concerns linger about potential risks such as impaired neurodevelopment in children, higher chances of stillbirth, and increased likelihood of low birth weights.
Current Knowledge Gaps
According to Willett, a major misunderstanding in the public mindset is the belief that scientists understand the effects of cannabinoids. “We don’t understand what they do,” she confirmed. The researchers emphasize the lack of extensive study in this area, especially regarding cannabis effects during early development. Despite its increasing availability, research has lagged due to various restrictions faced in studying cannabis.
The Role of Zebrafish
The research team has chosen zebrafish as their model organism. These small fish share about 70% of human genes and have a nervous system that closely resembles humans. What’s fascinating is that zebrafish eggs can develop within approximately 96 hours, a timeline that mirrors nine months of human development. This accelerated growth allows researchers to administer cannabinoids to zebrafish eggs and observe how it affects the embryos over a brief span.
“We can see all of that early development,” Ashpole explained. They will study these embryos microscopically to track any possible defects that may arise from cannabinoid exposure.
Targeting Critical Development Windows
One important aspect of this research is identifying critical periods during development when cannabinoids might have the most impact. Ashpole noted that the findings may not be straightforward like comparing the first trimester with the third trimester. Instead, the research may highlight specific developmental phases, indicating whether exposure after certain milestones, like spinal cord or eye development, poses less risk.
Goals of the Research
Whether or not the study uncovers negative effects of cannabinoid exposure, the overarching aim is to advance understanding in an area that needs more clarity. Willett stated, “We think it is really important to understand cannabinoid toxicity or risks of cannabinoid exposure in early development.” The research has been a long journey for the team, having submitted proposals multiple times before receiving funding.
The Importance of Continued Research
This initiative represents a crucial effort to better understand the effects of cannabis on pregnant women and their babies. The work not only seeks to clear up confusion but also aspires to provide valuable insights that could guide future guidelines and education around cannabis use during pregnancy.
Support from the NIH is pivotal, as it enables researchers to investigate this growing trend in a scientifically rigorous manner, through which they hope to answer pressing questions surrounding cannabis and pregnancy.
