Psychotropic Effects of Cannabis
Plant-Based Therapeutics, Volume 1 January 1, 2023 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-35155-6_6 (opens in new tab) via Springer Nature
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractBrain development from fetal life through adolescence involves ordered events and critical periods of plasticity, during which the brain is especially sensitive to environmental influences. The endocannabinoid system plays a direct and indirect role in these plasticity and maturation processes. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the main psychoactive component of Cannabis, crosses the placental barrier, is present in breast milk, and diffuses into the brain. It interacts with endocannabinoid signaling by activating cannabinoid receptors, which can lead to abnormal neurodevelopmental processes and disrupt the functions of neuronal circuits.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol can disrupt neurodevelopment by interacting with endocannabinoid signaling through cannabinoid receptors. |
Abstract
Brain development is a complex phenomenon from fetal life to adolescence. During this period, the brain’s maturation proceeds through a series of ordered events, including critical periods of plasticity. The brain is particularly sensitive to the environment during the changes. The endocannabinoid system participates directly and indirectly in the plasticity and maturation processes. The main psychoactive component of Cannabis , delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, can cross the placental barrier; it is present in breast milk and diffuses in the brain; it interacts with endocannabinoid signaling, especially through activating cannabinoid receptors which can lead to abnormal neurodevelopmental processes and the functions of neuronal circuits [1].