Yes, this topic is random compared to my other postings but I think it is important to note something about THC since it is a controversial topic in society over the last year or so. THC, also known as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive chemical found in cannabis. The article that I read included a study about how THC might be linked in inhibiting the progression of Alzheimer's disease. The enzyme that Alzheimer's uses is called acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which is an enzyme that produces amyloid β-peptide aggregation. Aggregation of amyloid β-peptide is what results in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. This study was able to confirm that THC was able to inhibit the AChE, which would lead to a decrease in the symptoms and progression of Alzheimer's. There are two other medications being used in treating Alzheimer's, donepezil and tacrine. THC inhibition was shown to work better at inhibiting AChE better than both of these two medications. I'm sure there still needs to be more study done on this psychoactive chemical, but it is very satisfying to hear that there might be a better solution to slowing down Alzheimer's than the drugs that are currently on the market. I hope to see more studies done on THC and what benefits can come from it. But the biggest problem with studies done on this chemical is still how it is under fire from the federal government; more studies won't be available till this blockade on research is lifted.
I'm curious to see what everyone thinks about this study...
Here's the link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2562334/
This is very interesting. it's a shame that this study is stunted but I'm also curious to see how they work around the blockade to make a drug that works just as well if not better.
ReplyDeleteHopefully sooner then later, society will be able to accept that THC has the potential for medical treatments then just being viewed as a "gateway drug". There is countless amounts of research including this that supports the benefits of this for those with certain conditions and if it helps decrease Alzheimer's symptoms, well I say screw the government. People don't understand what that disease does not only to the one who suffers but also to the family and it's not an easy disease to live with. I've read articles about it helping those with seizures and let's not forget cancer. People need to look at the bigger picture here and realize that THC can help ease people's pain or suffering if treated appropriately. I can go on and on but I will save you from that lol.
ReplyDeleteThere are worse evils out there. It's about time the government realizes this. My grad classmates know this already, but for everyone else, did you know marijuana is a schedule I controlled substance? The "worst" category, claiming it has "no recognized medical use." It's ridiculous with other drugs like cocaine being listed under schedule II with "some medical use." Seriously...
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