Investigating how cannabis affects depression and brain function in young adults
Cannabis, Depression and Neurobiological Function in Transition-Age Youth
This study is looking at how using cannabis might affect brain function and mood in young adults aged 18 to 25, and it’s inviting both regular users and non-users to participate in tests and share hair samples to see how cannabis exposure relates to mental health over a year.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10370928 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the impact of cannabis exposure on brain function and the development of depressive symptoms in transition-age youth, specifically those aged 18 to 25. The study will involve recruiting both regular cannabis users and non-users to assess their neurobiological responses through various tests, including neuroimaging and cortisol measurements. Participants will also provide hair samples to measure THC exposure over time. By following these individuals for a year, the research aims to uncover important insights into how cannabis may influence mental health during a critical developmental period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are transition-age youth who are regular cannabis users or non-users aged 18 to 25.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 18 to 25 or those who do not use cannabis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for depression in young adults who use cannabis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of cannabis on mental health, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fischer, Adina Sheri — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Fischer, Adina Sheri
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.