Understanding how cannabis use affects reward processing in depressed adolescents

Reward Function in Adolescents with Depression and Cannabis Use

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · ALBERT EINSTEIN COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-10888341

This study is looking at how using cannabis might affect the way teenagers with depression experience rewards in their brains, and it's for young people who want to understand more about how these two issues are connected.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorALBERT EINSTEIN COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BRONX, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10888341 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between adolescent depression and cannabis use, focusing on how these factors influence reward processing in the brain. By utilizing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the study aims to identify the neural mechanisms underlying reward dysfunction in adolescents who use cannabis. The research seeks to fill a gap in existing literature, as most studies on adolescent depression have excluded cannabis users, thereby providing new insights into the cognitive and behavioral consequences of this comorbidity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are experiencing depression and have a history of cannabis use.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use cannabis or are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for adolescents struggling with depression and cannabis use.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research specifically addressing this comorbidity, studies on reward dysfunction in depression have shown promising results, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

BRONX, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.