How cannabis use during adolescence affects brain function and behavior

Impact of Cannabinoid Across the Lifespan (ICAL)

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-10932780

This study is looking at how using cannabis during teenage years might change the way the brain works, which could affect thinking, behavior, and how we handle stress and illness, helping us understand the risks for young people who use it.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10932780 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of adolescent cannabis use on the endocannabinoid signaling system, which is crucial for brain function and behavior. By using a combination of molecular, electrophysiological, and behavioral methods, the study aims to understand how exposure to THC, the active component in cannabis, during critical developmental periods can lead to lasting changes in brain function. The research focuses on how these changes may affect cognition, behavior, and responses to stress and infection. The findings could provide insights into the risks associated with cannabis use in young people.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have used cannabis.

Not a fit: Patients who are not within the adolescent age range or have not used cannabis 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 cognitive and behavioral issues related to adolescent cannabis use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that adolescent exposure to cannabinoids can lead to significant changes in brain function, suggesting that this approach is building on established findings.

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.