Effects of cannabis use during adolescence on addiction risk
Impact of Cannabinoid Across the Lifespan (ICAL)
This study is looking at how using THC, the main ingredient in cannabis, during teenage years might increase the chances of becoming addicted to stronger drugs like opioids later on, and it aims to understand how this affects brain development and behavior in both boys and girls.
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-10932782 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to THC, the active component of cannabis, during adolescence affects the risk of developing addiction to harder drugs like opioids later in life. Using rodent models, the study aims to establish a causal relationship between adolescent THC exposure and changes in brain function that may lead to increased vulnerability to addiction. The research focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms involved, particularly how THC influences brain development and behavior during this critical period. By examining sex differences in response to THC, the study seeks to provide insights that could inform prevention and treatment strategies for substance use disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults who have used cannabis and may be at risk for substance use disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who have not used cannabis or are not at risk for substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for addiction in adolescents who use cannabis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that adolescent exposure to THC can lead to increased addiction risk, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mahler, Stephen Vincent — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Mahler, Stephen Vincent
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.