Identifying genetic factors that influence how people respond to THC.
Official title: Identification of gene variants mediating the behavioral and physiological response to THC
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-11080317 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how differences in our genes might change how our bodies and behaviors react to THC, the main ingredient in cannabis, using a special type of mouse; the goal is to help explain why some people have bad experiences with strong cannabis while others don’t, which could lead to better insights about cannabis and health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $735,832 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA056523-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080317 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who use cannabis and may be experiencing varying effects, particularly those with a family history of adverse reactions to THC.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or have no interest in its effects may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic variations affect the behavioral and physiological responses to THC, the active component in cannabis. By using a specialized mouse model, the study aims to uncover the specific genes and biological pathways that mediate these responses. The findings could help clarify why some individuals experience adverse effects from high-potency cannabis while others do not, ultimately contributing to a better understanding of cannabis use and its health implications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized approaches in cannabis use, helping to mitigate adverse effects for individuals based on their genetic makeup.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic factors influencing drug responses, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mulligan, Megan Kathleen — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Mulligan, Megan Kathleen
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.