How cannabis affects brain function in adolescents
Mechanisms and treatment of adolescent phytocannabinoid impairment of prefrontal cortex function
['FUNDING_R01'] · TRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY · NIH-11043403
This study looks at how using cannabis might affect the brain development of teenagers and young adults, focusing on an area that helps with decision-making and memory, to better understand why early cannabis use can lead to mental health issues.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BLOOMINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11043403 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of cannabis use on the development of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in adolescents and young adults. By administering Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to adolescent rodents, the study aims to understand how cannabis disrupts PFC maturation and affects executive function and working memory. The findings could reveal the mechanisms behind increased risks of psychiatric disorders associated with early cannabis use. The research employs advanced imaging techniques to assess brain connectivity and function.
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 developing cannabis-related disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who have not used cannabis or are outside the adolescent and young adult age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for psychiatric disorders linked to adolescent cannabis use.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that early cannabis use can lead to significant cognitive impairments, suggesting that this research builds on established findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
BLOOMINGTON, UNITED STATES
- TRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY — BLOOMINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LU, HUI-CHEN — TRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: LU, HUI-CHEN
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.
Conditions: addictive disorder