Investigating the effects of cannabis compounds on behavior and cognition
Official title: Rocky Mountain Cannabis Research Center
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10912672 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how CBD might change the way THC affects thinking and behavior in people of different ages, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how these substances work together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,803,466 |
| NIH project number | 5P50DA056408-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10912672 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include adults and adolescents aged 12 and older who are interested in the effects of cannabis on behavior and cognition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or have contraindications to its use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how cannabidiol (CBD) influences the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on behavior and cognition in individuals of various age groups. By utilizing mobile laboratories, researchers will collect biological samples to assess the immediate impacts of THC and CBD on neurocognitive functions and behavioral outcomes. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either CBD or a placebo, allowing for a controlled examination of how different doses and formulations of CBD affect THC's effects. The study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms involving the endocannabinoid system and associated lipids.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for managing the effects of cannabis in various populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the interactions between CBD and THC, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hutchison, Kent E. — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Hutchison, Kent E.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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A research project follows young adult sexual minorities to see how daily stress and coping help explain cannabis use and related problems.
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Repeated cannabis with different THC/CBD mixes and how it affects pain, cravings, and body chemicals
This project studies how taking cannabis repeatedly, with different THC and CBD amounts, changes pain experiences, potential for abuse, and levels of body chemicals related to the endocannabinoid system in adults.
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Terminal cannabinoid CB1 receptor changes in schizophrenia and cannabis use
This grant studies how cannabis use and schizophrenia together affect a brain receptor (CB1) and what that could mean for memory and symptoms.
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Cannabis policies and prenatal cannabis use: how laws affect moms and babies
This grant studies how changes in recreational cannabis laws influence cannabis use during pregnancy and health outcomes for mothers and children.
-
Youth and social media marketing of hemp-derived cannabis products
Young people are increasingly exposed to hemp-derived cannabis product marketing on social media, and this study looks at how that marketing might influence their attitudes and curiosity.
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.