How cannabis use affects brain changes linked to depression
Functional convergence following disruption of diverse genes associated with cannabis use and major depression
This study is looking at how using cannabis might affect the brain and contribute to major depression, by comparing brain samples from people who use cannabis, those with depression, and those without any issues, to better understand the changes that happen in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10932680 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between cannabis use and major depression by examining how cannabis alters the development of specific brain regions. Researchers will analyze brain samples from individuals with cannabis use disorder, major depressive disorder, and neurotypical controls to identify molecular changes associated with these conditions. By utilizing advanced genomic techniques, the study aims to uncover the genetic and epigenetic factors that may increase vulnerability to depression following cannabis use. The findings could provide insights into the biological mechanisms linking drug use and psychiatric disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of cannabis use disorder or major depressive disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use cannabis and do not have any history of depression may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how cannabis use contributes to depression, potentially informing prevention and treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While the association between cannabis use and depression has been noted, this specific approach using advanced genomic techniques is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Girgenti, Matthew J — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Girgenti, Matthew J
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.