Understanding how substance use affects brain development in adolescents
20/21 ABCD-USA CONSORTIUM: RESEARCH PROJECT SITE AT VCU
This study is looking at how using substances like alcohol and cannabis during teenage years affects brain growth and mental health, and it's for kids aged 9-10 who will be followed over time to see how these factors influence their development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078319 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of adolescent substance use, including alcohol and cannabis, on brain development and mental health from childhood into early adulthood. It involves a large cohort of children aged 9-10 years who are monitored over time through advanced neuroimaging and regular assessments of their mental and physical health. Participants will undergo comprehensive evaluations, including neuropsychological testing and mobile monitoring, to track changes in behavior and development. The study aims to identify how early substance use and environmental factors may influence neurodevelopment and lead to adverse outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are children aged 9-10 years, particularly those with a history of substance use or mental health concerns.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 9-10 years or those without any substance use or mental health issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for substance use and mental health issues in adolescents.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of substance use on adolescent brain development, making this study a continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bjork, James M — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Bjork, James M
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.