How maternal marijuana use affects the brain development of children
Impact of maternal marijuana use on epigenetic regulation of offspring neurodevelopment
This study is looking at how using marijuana during pregnancy might affect your baby's brain development, especially in relation to conditions like autism and ADHD, by exploring changes in the placenta and fetal brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10908441 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of maternal marijuana use, specifically the compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), on the brain development of offspring. It focuses on how THC exposure during pregnancy may lead to epigenetic changes that could impact neurodevelopmental outcomes such as autism and ADHD. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind these changes by examining the placenta and fetal brain, which are crucial for proper growth and development. By using advanced imaging techniques and longitudinal assessments, the research seeks to establish a clearer link between maternal THC use and its effects on child development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals who have used marijuana during their pregnancy.
Not a fit: Patients who have not used marijuana during pregnancy or whose children are already diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders in children exposed to marijuana in utero.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated potential links between prenatal substance exposure and neurodevelopmental issues, but this specific approach to studying epigenetic changes is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lo, Jamie — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Lo, Jamie
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.