World’s First Genetic Test for Cannabis Response
Imagine a genetic test that could warn you about your sensitivity to the effects of various cannabinoids, or determine your personal risk of developing a dependency on certain compounds. This is no longer science fiction. A new, single-use, affordable product is about to hit pharmacies, allowing you to send a DNA sample for detailed laboratory analysis.
This test is a reality, developed by the Canadian bioengineering company AnantLife, and is preparing to launch in the country’s open market. The process is simple: collect a saliva sample, send it to the company’s lab, and receive a comprehensive genetic analysis of your DNA. Using molecular biology, scientists can identify specific “markers” in your genome that indicate a higher sensitivity to THC or other cannabinoids, as well as markers that show a predisposition to chronic cannabis use.
Experts refer to these markers as genome polymorphisms. While every segment of a person’s genetic code is in a specific place in the DNA chain, the exact sequence of each genetic line varies from individual to individual. New DNA analysis technology allows scientists to identify these polymorphic regions, make precise copies, and store them in a database containing millions, if not billions, of different polymorphism types. Analyzing a client’s sample helps experts find matches with problematic compounds in the database.
Recent studies show that about 10% of all cannabis users eventually develop a psychological dependency on the plant. Here, “dependency” is defined as a harmful behavioral pattern that disrupts normal daily functioning. For cannabis, this often means an uncontrollable urge to smoke and irritability during withdrawal. Other strong indicators of dependency include conflicts with family, colleagues, friends, and run-ins with law enforcement.
Of course, daily cannabis use does not automatically mean someone is dependent, as millions of users live productive lives despite regular consumption. Still, from a mental health perspective, it’s sometimes wise to take a short break from cannabis. Many users are not at risk of developing dependency, but those considering trying cannabis for the first time could benefit from this test, as it can warn individuals predisposed to dependency or mental health issues about potential risks.
This test is a real, proven invention, already formally accredited by the American College of Physicians and the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). Several well-known doctors vouch for its effectiveness, and its trial data has been reviewed and approved by government inspectors in both the US and Canada.
Interview with Dr. Rahul Kushwah, AnantLife Co-Founder
To learn more about how this genetic test works, the editors of Merry Jane interviewed Dr. Rahul Kushwah, chief researcher and co-founder of AnantLife. Before joining the company, Dr. Kushwah worked for the Canadian government, including as a special consultant at Toronto’s children’s hospital.
Merry Jane: How did you develop the test for cannabinoid sensitivity?
Dr. Kushwah: It started with a broad analysis of the American cannabis market. Our team studied market trends and scientific literature for new and promising cannabis developments. We focused on older genetic studies that identified genes responsible for cannabis sensitivity. We cross-checked this data with patient databases to verify the facts. After building an initial marker database, we collaborated with professional cannabis doctors to develop the test kit itself.
Our company also produces other tests for predispositions to diabetes and chronic diseases. While working on those, we accumulated a vast archive of data on different human genome polymorphisms. Over 8-10 months, this allowed us to discover many new markers related to cannabinoid effects.
MJ: How do you analyze the saliva samples?
Dr. Kushwah: We compare the sample against a large database of genetic markers. The genome regions responsible for cannabinoid effects are usually found in several fixed DNA segments. Our technology can also detect markers linked to cardiovascular diseases, cognitive issues, and other conditions. If we find such markers in a client’s genome, we can describe the potential risks of cannabis use. The test creates a unique profile of a person’s natural response to cannabis. We’re also researching markers that might explain cannabis-related appetite and digestive issues in some users.
MJ: How does the test determine the risk of cannabis dependency?
Dr. Kushwah: There are genetic markers in the human body that indicate a predisposition to psychological or physiological dependency on certain substances. I want to clarify that I don’t consider cannabis to cause deep or destructive addiction—it’s much safer than pharmaceutical opioids. In fact, cannabis could be used in substitution therapy to help opioid-dependent people quit without severe withdrawal. Still, before prescribing therapeutic cannabis, doctors should ensure it won’t harm the patient’s health. For example, cannabis should not be used in people prone to schizophrenia. A simple, accessible risk marker test can help doctors protect their patients.
Our research identified 12 DNA regions containing markers linked to cannabinoid dependency. These regions can have countless genetic configurations, and certain sequences determine dependency risk. We confirmed previous research by conducting our own analysis with a group of volunteers, which allowed us to verify the existence, location, and function of these markers.
MJ: How quickly do you think the medical community will adopt your test?
Dr. Kushwah: We hope to distribute test kits through doctors specializing in cannabis therapy. They’ll also be available in any licensed cannabis store in the US and Canada. As I mentioned, the test only requires sending a saliva sample to the lab, making it very easy to use.
MJ: How will you protect the privacy of people sending in samples?
Dr. Kushwah: Genetic discrimination is strictly prohibited in both the US and Canada, so no one can legally use genome information for discrimination. Our client database uses advanced encryption technology, protected from external interference. Lab technicians only work with unique sample IDs and have no access to personal information.
MJ: Is the test patented by your company?
Dr. Kushwah: No, because we work with unique genes, which cannot be patented by law, we couldn’t secure exclusive rights to the test technology. While we are a for-profit company, our prices are much lower than other genetic testing services. As scientists, we’re interested in advancing cannabis medicine through this development.
MJ: Will the test be available outside the US and Canada?
Dr. Kushwah: For now, we plan to distribute the test only in these two countries, but technically, anyone worldwide can send us their sample if they can obtain the test kit.
MJ: Are there any technical limitations to the test?
Dr. Kushwah: We’re still far from identifying all genome regions responsible for cannabis effects. So far, we’ve found only 12 out of a possible 30-40 regions. We continue our research, updating the testing technology every two weeks based on new DNA analysis data.
MJ: Can the test produce false positives for markers?
Dr. Kushwah: Thanks to our genome analysis technology, we can pinpoint DNA regions and create exact copies in our database. Re-analyzing and comparing simulated genes with the original allows us to recreate marker structures with 99% accuracy.
MJ: Which government agencies have approved the product?
Dr. Kushwah: We have certificates and clinical trial results from medical associations in the US and Canada. The test’s design has also been reviewed and approved by health authorities in both countries.
MJ: How much will the test cost?
Dr. Kushwah: While we haven’t set a final price, I expect the retail cost to be around $800-900. We’re working with companies and governments in the US and Canada to arrange insurance compensation for customers purchasing the test.
MJ: Any final thoughts for our readers?
Dr. Kushwah: I want to address two points. First, I’m deeply concerned about the American opioid crisis. We hope legalization will allow people to replace opioid painkillers with cannabis, and that our products will help doctors find new treatments for addiction. Second, I hope our product will be in demand among the growing number of recreational cannabis users. People should be aware of the possible risks of cannabis use, especially genetic predisposition to dependency or schizophrenia. Timely testing can protect people’s health and help maintain cannabis’s reputation as a safe plant in the public eye.