Effects of cannabinoids on brain development during adolescence

Impact of Cannabinoid Across the Lifespan (ICAL)

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-10932776

This study looks at how using THC, a compound found in cannabis, during teenage years can change brain development and behavior, and it’s designed to help young people and their families understand the potential risks of using cannabis while growing up.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932776 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to cannabinoids, specifically Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), during adolescence affects brain development and behavior. It focuses on understanding the long-term changes in the endocannabinoid system and how these changes may lead to behavioral abnormalities. The research involves a combination of workshops, training programs, and scientific activities aimed at educating and engaging the community about the impacts of cannabinoids. By studying these effects, the research aims to provide insights into the risks associated with adolescent cannabis use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who may be exposed to cannabis.

Not a fit: Patients who are not within the age range of 12 to 20 or who have not been exposed to cannabinoids may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for the negative effects of cannabis use during critical developmental periods.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown significant effects of cannabinoids on brain development, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and critical.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.