How sex and age affect cannabis use and its effects across the life span
Sex differences in THC/CBD self-administration of vulnerable age groups throughout the life span
Researchers are comparing how sex and different ages change the way THC and CBD are taken and affect teens, young adults, pregnant people, and older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11166361 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses a realistic animal model where rats choose to inhale THC and CBD vapors to mimic voluntary cannabis use. Scientists will compare males and females across life stages—adolescents, emerging adults, pregnant females, and aged adults—to measure how much is taken, whether cues or stress trigger relapse, and how thinking and memory are affected. They will also examine brain-level molecular changes tied to use to link behavior with biology. Findings are intended to inform related clinical projects about age- and sex-related vulnerabilities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who use cannabis or are at risk for Cannabis Use Disorder across life stages—adolescents (about 12–20), young adults, pregnant people, and older adults—are most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: People with no history of cannabis use or those seeking immediate clinical treatment for Cannabis Use Disorder may not receive direct benefit from this preclinical component.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could clarify age- and sex-specific risks and brain changes from cannabis use that inform prevention and more tailored treatments for cannabis use problems.
How similar studies have performed: Animal models of cannabis self-administration have been used before to inform human research, but studying THC/CBD intake across sexes and these specific vulnerable age groups is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reichel, Carmela M — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Reichel, Carmela M
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.