Cannabis Removes Toxic Alzheimer’s Protein from the Brain

Scientists have found that THC may help remove clumps of toxic amyloid beta protein in the brain. The protein is responsible for progressing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

The effects of THC on human neuron growth mimicking the effects of Alzheimer’s disease were tested by David Schubert and his team, according to Science Alert.

Schubert said, “Although other studies have offered evidence that cannabinoids might be neuroprotective against the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, we believe our study is the first to demonstrate that cannabinoids affect both inflammation and amyloid beta accumulation in nerve cells.”

Cannabinoid receptors in the brain (CB1 receptors) are found closer to neurons that aid pleasure, thinking, time perception, memory and coordination. The receptors bind to endocannabinoids that the body makes itself. Endocannabinoid help cell-to-cell signaling processes in the brain. THC works similarly to the way that endocannabinoids do.

Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t have a known cause but it’s thought that contributors could be amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles.

THC may help remove the toxic clusters of amyloid plaques.