New Research: Cannabinoids, Potential Positive Effect on Males
Researchers only weeks ago at the University of L’Aquila in Italy released a study that heavily counters the long standing debate that cannabis decreases fertility in males. Professor Mauro...
Mike Robinson
2 min read
Researchers only weeks ago at the University of L’Aquila in Italy released a study that heavily counters the long standing debate that cannabis decreases fertility in males. Professor Mauro Maccarrone led the study and opened the floor for debate. He stated "Many aspects of human male reproduction can be modulated by cannabis-derived extracts (cannabinoids) and their endogenous counterparts, known as endocannabinoids. These latter molecules act as critical signals in a variety of physiological processes through receptors, enzymes and transporters collectively termed the Endocannabinoid system (ECS)."
Furthermore this research concluded that preclinical studies have shown that the ECS is involved in negative modulation of testosterone secretion by acting at both central and testicular levels. As well, clinical data is not insufficient to conclude that cannabinoids have a harmful effect on human male sexual function and fertility. Although cannabinoid receptors are present in the testes and sperm, the effects of cannabinoid exposure on spermatogenesis largely remain to be clarified. The ECS has the potential to provide new drug targets in male reproductive disorders, and its components might be useful as biomarkers of male infertility.
Cannabinoid signalling and effects of cannabis on the male reproductive system
Mauro Maccarrone, Cinzia Rapino, Felice Francavilla & Arcangelo Barbonetti
Nature Reviews Urology (2020)
Abstract
Marijuana is the most widely consumed recreational drug worldwide, which raises concerns for its potential effects on fertility. Many aspects of human male reproduction can be modulated by cannabis-derived extracts (cannabinoids) and their endogenous counterparts, known as endocannabinoids (eCBs). These latter molecules act as critical signals in a variety of physiological processes through receptors, enzymes and transporters collectively termed the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Increasing evidence suggests a role for eCBs, as well as cannabinoids, in various aspects of male sexual and reproductive health. Although preclinical studies have clearly shown that ECS is involved in negative modulation of testosterone secretion by acting both at central and testicular levels in animal models, the effect of in vivo exposure to cannabinoids on spermatogenesis remains a matter of debate. Furthermore, inconclusive clinical evidence does not seem to support the notion that plant-derived cannabinoids have harmful effects on human sexual and reproductive health. An improved understanding of the complex crosstalk between cannabinoids and eCBs is required before targeting of ECS for modulation of human fertility becomes a reality.
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–Mike Robinson, Founder – Global Cannabinoid Research Center / GCRC Publications
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This article is educational commentary from GCRC. It is not a report of study findings and is not medical advice. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your own health.
