THC and sperm: Impact on fertilization capability, pre-implantation in vitro development and epigenetic modifications
Global cannabis use has risen 23% since 2010, with 209 million reported users, most of whom are males of reproductive age. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive phytocannabinoid in cannabis, disrupts pro-homeostatic functions of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) within the male reproductive system. The ECS is highly involved in regulating morpho-functional and intrinsic sperm features that are required for fertilization and pre-implantation embryo development…findings suggest that THC may alter key morpho-functional and epigenetic sperm factors involved in fertilization and embryo development. This is the first study [since 1984 when Morishima noted the lower quality of zygote production and zygote division] to demonstrate that sperm exposed to THC in vitro negatively affects embryo quality following IVF
(Source: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0298697)
