Effects of cannabinoids on brain development and function throughout life

Impact of Cannabinoid Across the Lifespan (ICAL)

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-10932778

This study looks at how using THC, a part of cannabis, during the teenage years can change brain development and function, helping us understand its long-term effects on thinking and behavior.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10932778 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to THC, a component of cannabis, during adolescence affects brain development and function. 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 pharmacokinetics in animal models to simulate the effects of cannabis use in teenagers. By developing sensitive methods for analyzing endocannabinoids, the research aims to provide insights into the long-term impacts of cannabinoid exposure on cognition and behavior.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults who have been exposed to THC or are considering cannabis use.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to cannabinoids or are outside the age range of 12 to 21 years may not 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 studies have shown significant effects of cannabinoid exposure on brain development, indicating that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

IRVINE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.