Effects of cannabinoids on brain development and function over time
Impact of Cannabinoid Across the Lifespan (ICAL)
This study is looking at how using THC, a part of cannabis, during teenage years can change brain development and behavior for the rest of a person's life, and it’s designed for anyone interested in understanding the long-term effects of cannabis use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121000 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to THC, a component of cannabis, during adolescence affects brain development and function throughout a person's life. It focuses on understanding the genetic and epigenetic changes that occur in the endocannabinoid system due to this exposure. The study involves analyzing drug metabolism and its effects on behavior in animal models, particularly adolescent and adult mice and rats. By developing sensitive methods for analyzing endocannabinoids, the research aims to provide insights into the long-term impacts of cannabinoid use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include adolescents and young adults who have used or are considering using cannabis.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to cannabinoids or are outside the age range of adolescence to adulthood may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of the effects of cannabis use on adolescent brain development.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant findings regarding the effects of cannabinoids on brain development, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and important.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ahmed, Faizy — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Ahmed, Faizy
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.