How cannabis use affects brain function in adolescents

Impact of Cannabinoid Across the Lifespan (ICAL)

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-11121009

This study is looking at how using cannabis as a teenager might change the way the brain works, especially in terms of thinking and emotions, and it's for young people who want to help us understand these effects better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11121009 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of cannabis use during adolescence on the endocannabinoid signaling system in the brain. By using a combination of molecular, electrophysiological, and behavioral methods, the study aims to understand how exposure to THC, the active component of cannabis, can lead to lasting changes in brain function and behavior. The research focuses on identifying specific disruptions in brain signaling and how these changes may affect cognition and emotional responses in young individuals. Participants may contribute to understanding the broader implications of cannabis use during critical developmental periods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have used cannabis or are at risk of using it.

Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescents or those who have not used cannabis may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for cognitive and behavioral issues related to adolescent cannabis use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that adolescent cannabis exposure can lead to significant changes in brain function, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

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.