Revisiting the Consequences of Adolescent Cannabinoid Exposure Through the Lens of the Endocannabinoid System

AbstractPurpose of the ReviewAdolescence is a period of culmination during which there is a neurodevelopment through processes such as synaptic potentiation and pruning, myelination, and improved connectivity. Recent studies posit a vital role of endocannabinoid signaling in regulating and fine-tuning these processes. Adolescence is also a period of heightened vulnerability for exposure to exogenous cannabinoids (cannabis) which can potentially disrupt the regulatory function of endocannabinoids.Recent FindingsWhile studies in animal models provide more compelling evidence for residual and persistent effects of cannabinoid exposure, human studies present a mixed picture, specifically for the cognitive consequences of adolescent cannabinoid exposure. Few studies have addressed the reward and psychosis-related consequences of early cannabinoid exposure. We review the recent advances in the literature on the endocannabinoid system, its role in neurodevelopment, the consequences of adolescent cannabinoid exposure, and plausible links among these. Further, we examine the epigenetic mechanisms altered by cannabinoids as a potential molecular mechanism underlying the persistent consequences of adolescent exposure.SummaryAttitudes towards and patterns of cannabis use among adolescents are rapidly changing as is the landscape of its legal status. The conflicting results between pre-clinical and human studies as well as a lack of understanding of underlying mechanisms call for further ...
Source: Current Addiction Reports - Category: Addiction Source Type: research