Understanding how prenatal exposure to cannabis affects brain development and memory.

Elucidation of molecular mechanisms of prenatal cannabinoid exposure: Identification of targets and therapies.

NIH-funded research Kennesaw State University · NIH-10900805

This study is looking at how being exposed to cannabis before birth might affect a child's ability to learn and remember things, and it aims to find out how this happens in the brain, so we can better help kids who might struggle with these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionKennesaw State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kennesaw, United States)
Project IDNIH-10900805 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of prenatal cannabinoid exposure (PCE) on cognitive function in offspring. It aims to identify the molecular mechanisms that lead to learning and memory deficits associated with PCE by examining changes in brain signaling pathways and synaptic plasticity. The study will utilize animal models to explore how PCE impacts the expression of specific proteins involved in memory and cognition. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to inform potential therapeutic targets for addressing cognitive impairments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals who have used cannabis during their pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to cannabis during pregnancy or those whose offspring are already exhibiting severe cognitive impairments unrelated to prenatal exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or mitigating cognitive deficits in children exposed to cannabis in utero.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research into the effects of prenatal substance exposure, this specific investigation into the molecular mechanisms of cannabis exposure is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Kennesaw, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.