Recreational cannabis use is now legal in more than half of the United States, but recent research published in Molecular Psychiatry found that whether you choose to partake — and your potential to become addicted — may actually be connected to your DNA. The study’s findings are relevant not only for traditional cannabis use but also for modern products like THC edibles, which deliver powerful doses and longer-lasting effects.
The 2025 study examined genetic factors that contributed to the development of cannabis use disorder (CUD) by analyzing cannabis behaviors in 131,895 people. Researchers conducted a genome-wide association study to explore genetic, biological, and phenotypic associations. The result? Two specific genes CADM2 and GRM3 were found to be significantly associated with cannabis use behaviors, including how individuals respond to THC edibles and other potent cannabis products.
“CADM2 has previously been linked to impulsivity and risk-taking, so it appears to influence the likelihood of trying cannabis, while GRM3, which regulates glutamate signaling in the brain, may affect patterns of continued use,” says Edmond Hakimi, DO, an addiction medicine specialist and medical director at Wellbridge. Furthermore, the research revealed overlapping genetic risks with alcohol, nicotine, and other addictions — showing how the same reward circuits that react to THC edibles also respond to other substances.
“The genetic variants found in this study nudge cannabis use disorder probabilities by small amounts, but they do not make cannabis use or disorder inevitable,” he says.
When it comes to understanding addiction risk, the method of consumption matters. “Smoking produces rapid onset but short duration, vaping delivers concentrated doses quickly, and THC edibles act more slowly but last longer, sometimes encouraging higher intake,” Hakimi says. This means THC edibles can increase the risk of overconsumption since their delayed effects often lead users to ingest more before feeling the impact.
THC, cannabis’ main psychoactive compound, binds strongly to CB1 receptors in the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and creating reinforcement loops. This mechanism applies equally to THC edibles, which deliver high potency and prolonged euphoria. Modern THC edibles have become particularly habit-forming for users with high reward sensitivity or certain genetic predispositions.
CUD is diagnosed using DSM-5 criteria, including impaired control, craving, tolerance, withdrawal, and continued use despite harm. Genetic differences may influence why some people develop dependence on THC edibles faster than others, but environment and behavior remain powerful determinants.
Experts emphasize that while genes can shape your response to THC edibles, they don’t determine your destiny. Factors like stress, peer influence, and early-life experiences still play a larger role. For casual consumers, moderation, lower potency, and mindful use of THC edibles can help reduce addiction risk — proving that knowledge, not just genetics, is the key to responsible cannabis use.