Investigating how THC affects brain development in ferrets.
Official title: A Novel Animal Model to Investigate the Effects of Delta-9 - Tetrahydrocannabinol in the Primary Visual Cortex of Ferrets.
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10823504 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how exposure to THC, a key ingredient in cannabis, affects brain development in ferrets during a crucial growth period, helping us understand the possible risks of using cannabis while pregnant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 2, 2024 |
| Project end | July 1, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,574 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DA060014-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10823504 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals who use cannabis and are concerned about its effects on fetal development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or are not pregnant may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive component of cannabis, on brain development during the critical third trimester equivalent in ferrets. The study focuses on how THC exposure influences the density and function of cannabinoid type-1 receptors (CB1Rs) in the primary visual cortex, which is crucial for understanding synaptic plasticity. By using an animal model, the research aims to uncover the long-term effects of prenatal THC exposure on brain development and function, providing insights into potential risks associated with cannabis use during pregnancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the risks of cannabis use during pregnancy and its effects on fetal brain development.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research specifically on THC's effects during pregnancy, studies on cannabinoids and brain development suggest potential risks, indicating that this area is both relevant and necessary for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pruitt, Molly Elizabeth — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Pruitt, Molly Elizabeth
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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.