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·November 13, 2024·4 min read

Metabolic Pathways Link Cannabis to Psychosis in Teens

A study investigated how cannabis use influences metabolomic patterns linked to psychotic-like experiences in adolescents. Blood samples revealed that non-cannabis users showed inflammatory metabolic changes associated with hallucinations, while cannabis users exhibited shifts in energy-related metabolites tied to brain ketogenesis. These findings suggest that cannabis use may trigger distinct molecular pathways in psychotic-like experiences.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·October 28, 2024·5 min read

Prenatal Cannabis Use Linked to Child Aggression and Cognitive Deficits

Prenatal exposure to cannabis can negatively impact children’s thinking and behavioral skills, including impulse control, attention, and aggression, which are key for academic and social success. The study observed preschool-aged children with prenatal cannabis exposure and found they showed poorer control over impulses and emotions.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·October 23, 2024·5 min read

Cannabis Use Linked to Thinner Cortex in Adolescents

Cannabis use in adolescents may lead to thinning of the cerebral cortex, a key brain region for cognitive function. Researchers found that THC, the active ingredient in cannabis, causes the shrinking of dendrites, which are crucial for neuron communication.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·October 17, 2024·6 min read

Cannabis Leaves Molecular Marks on DNA Linked to Psychosis

Frequent use of high-potency cannabis leaves unique molecular marks on DNA, particularly affecting genes related to energy and immune function. Researchers found that DNA methylation—an epigenetic modification—differed between frequent cannabis users who had experienced psychosis and those who had not, suggesting a possible genetic link to psychosis risk.

This shows a pregnant woman and cannabis plants.

Featured Neuroscience

·October 4, 2024·5 min read

Long-term Impact of Prenatal Cannabis Exposure Explored

A study examining the effects of prenatal exposure to synthetic cannabinoids in rats found that the drug leads to long-term health issues in their offspring. Male rats showed an increased sensitivity to CO2, making them more prone to panic-like behavior, while females exhibited cardiovascular problems like hypertension and tachycardia.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·October 1, 2024·3 min read

Teen Attention Deficits Signal Greater Risk of Substance Use

New research shows that lower sustained attention in adolescence can predict a higher likelihood of cigarette and cannabis use by young adulthood. The study, which analyzed brain imaging data from over 1,000 participants, found that reduced attention at age 14 was linked to increased substance use by age 23.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·September 27, 2024·4 min read

Cannabis Use in Pregnancy Alters Genes in Developing Brain

New research has found that cannabis use during pregnancy can cause molecular changes in the genes of exposed children, impacting brain development. The study identified significant DNA alterations in genes related to neurodevelopment, suggesting a direct link between prenatal cannabis exposure and developmental issues.

Featured Neuroscience

·September 5, 2024·4 min read

Long-Term Cannabis Use Linked to Sleep and Memory Issues

Long-term cannabis users experience more sleep problems, which are associated with poorer visuospatial memory performance. Researchers compared 141 regular cannabis users to 87 non-users and found that chronic cannabis use may worsen both sleep and memory, despite its common use as a sleep aid.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 31, 2024·5 min read

Cannabigerol (CBG) Reduces Anxiety and Improves Memory

A new study shows that Cannabigerol (CBG) significantly reduces anxiety without the intoxicating effects of THC. The clinical trial found that 20 mg of CBG reduced anxiety and stress in participants, with memory enhancement as an unexpected benefit. The study highlights CBG’s potential as an alternative anxiety treatment. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore additional benefits.

This shows a woman, leaves, and a brain.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 5, 2024·6 min read

Prenatal Cannabis Use Impacts Brain Development

A new study suggests prenatal cannabis exposure may influence long-term brain development and mental health. Researchers used data from the ABCD Study to examine neuroimaging of children exposed to cannabis in utero.

This shows a man in a facemask holding a cannabis plant.

Featured Neuroscience

·June 21, 2024·7 min read

Cannabis Use Linked to Severe COVID-19

Cannabis use increases the risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Analyzing records of 72,501 patients, researchers discovered that cannabis users were significantly more likely to require hospitalization and intensive care. This elevated risk was comparable to that of tobacco smokers. The study challenges the perception of cannabis as a safe substance in the context of COVID-19.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·May 22, 2024·4 min read

Strong Link Between Teen Cannabis Use and Psychosis Risk

A new study finds a strong association between teen cannabis use and a significantly increased risk of developing psychotic disorders. This risk appears to be age-dependent, with adolescents being particularly vulnerable to the effects of cannabis on their developing brains. While further research is needed, these findings raise concerns about early cannabis use and highlight the importance of prevention strategies.