Effects of adolescent cannabis use on brain development
Investigating the lasting effects of adolescent cannabinoid exposure on mesocortical development
This study is looking at how using THC, the main ingredient in cannabis, during teenage years affects brain development and thinking skills, using young rats to see how it changes brain activity and functions, with hopes of helping people understand the long-term effects of cannabis use in teens.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11183009 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to THC, the active component in cannabis, during adolescence affects brain development, particularly in areas responsible for executive function. Using a rodent model, the study examines the impact of THC self-administration on GABAergic activity in the mesocortex, which is crucial for cognitive processes. The research aims to uncover the molecular and circuit-level changes induced by THC and how these changes may differ based on sex and dosage. By understanding these effects, the study hopes to provide insights into the long-term cognitive consequences of adolescent cannabis use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults who have used cannabis or are at risk of cannabis use.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to cannabis during adolescence or who are not within the adolescent to young adult age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the cognitive risks associated with adolescent cannabis use, potentially informing prevention and intervention strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that adolescent cannabis exposure can lead to cognitive deficits, suggesting that this investigation builds on established findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stringfield, Sierra — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Stringfield, Sierra
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.