How genetics affect behavior and brain development related to cannabis use in adolescents
Official title: Genetic influence on behavior, brain development, and substance use in two large, longitudinal adolescent cohorts
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11053634 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes might affect the way teenagers behave and develop their brains, especially in relation to using cannabis, to help us understand how these genetic factors could influence their mental health and actions before they start using substances.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $56,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DA057078-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053634 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have not yet used cannabis and are part of the studied cohorts.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those who have already engaged in cannabis use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that influence behavior and brain development in adolescents, particularly focusing on cannabis use. By analyzing data from two large cohorts of adolescents, the study aims to understand how genetic predispositions for cannabis use disorder impact mental health and behavior before substance use begins. Advanced statistical modeling techniques will be employed to differentiate the effects of various genetic risk profiles on adolescent development. The findings could provide insights into the relationship between genetics and substance use in young people.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for cannabis use and its associated mental health issues in adolescents.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic influences on substance use behaviors, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Diana Mun Yee — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Smith, Diana Mun Yee
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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.