Understanding how THC affects movement control in the brain
Official title: Role of CB1R expressed in the prefrontal cortex in the control of locomotion
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10922675 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how THC, the main ingredient in cannabis, affects movement by exploring how certain brain receptors work, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how cannabis might change how we move.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $194,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA057186-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10922675 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who use cannabis and may experience changes in their movement or motor control.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or have no interest in its effects on movement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cannabinoid receptors in the prefrontal cortex and how they influence movement control, particularly in response to THC, the active compound in cannabis. By using a novel sensor to measure levels of a specific endocannabinoid, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that THC activates, which may impair spontaneous locomotion. The research involves examining the interactions between different types of neurons in the brain to understand how THC alters movement behavior. This could provide insights into the broader effects of cannabis on motor functions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of cannabis-related movement impairments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that cannabinoids can affect movement, but this specific approach using novel sensors is relatively new and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stella, Nephi — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Stella, Nephi
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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.