Impact of early cannabinoid exposure on brain development and behavior
Official title: Effects of Early-life Cannabinoid Exposure on Prefrontal Circuitry and Cognitive Behavior across Development
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11094704 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how using cannabis, especially THC and CBD, during pregnancy and early life might impact brain development and behavior in young mice, with the hope of providing helpful information for mothers about cannabis use while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $502,235 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA059378-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094704 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women or nursing mothers who use or are considering using cannabis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or nursing, or those who do not use cannabis, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to cannabinoids during early life affects brain development and cognitive behavior. By studying the medial prefrontal cortex in mouse models, the research aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that lead to cognitive deficits associated with early cannabinoid use. The study will focus on the effects of two common cannabinoids, THC and CBD, and how they influence behavior as the subjects grow. The findings could help inform medical advice for pregnant and nursing mothers regarding cannabis use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the risks of cannabinoid exposure during pregnancy and lactation, leading to better health recommendations for mothers and their children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated potential neurodevelopmental risks associated with prenatal cannabinoid exposure, suggesting that this area of investigation is both relevant and necessary.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Che, Alicia Yue — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Che, Alicia Yue
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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.