Long-lasting behavioral, molecular and functional connectivity alterations after chronic THC exposure during adolescence in mice.
Laura Gómez-Acero, Federico Varriano, Nuria Sánchez-Fernández, Francisco Ciruela, Guadalupe Soria, Ester Aso
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry July 13, 2025 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2025.111422 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Animal study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Adolescent mice |
| Intervention | Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) |
| Topics | Cannabis |
| Keywords | Adenosine receptor Adolescence Dopamine receptor Sensorimotor gating Social interaction |
| Key points | Adolescent THC exposure in mice caused long-term cortico-striatal dysconnectivity and altered dopamine D2, adenosine A2A, and cannabinoid CB1 receptor balance, linked to impaired social interaction and sensorimotor gating deficits in adulthood. |
Abstract
Heavy and daily use of cannabis with high contents of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) during adolescence is associated with an increased risk of developing psychotic disorders later in life. Here, we treated mice with THC during adolescence and found that this exposure impaired social interaction and increased vulnerability to develop sensorimotor gating deficiencies comparable to those previously described among heavy cannabis consumers. Importantly, we provide evidence on long-term cortico-striatal dysconnectivity induced by exposure to THC during adolescence and its correlation with impaired social interactions occurring later in adulthood. Moreover, we have observed long-lasting molecular alterations in key elements that regulate the mesolimbic dopaminergic system, namely on the balance between dopamine D2, adenosine A2A, and cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the striatum of treated mice. Together, these findings contribute to a better understanding of the neurobiological bases of the deleterious effects associated with cannabis abuse during adolescence.
Comparable studies
Other preclinical and animal studies on cannabis, most cited first.
Citations in the library
Cited by 2
- Which Came First? Utility of Preclinical Models in Cracking the Chicken-or-Egg Relationship between Cannabis Use and Schizophrenia Current Addiction Reports February 27, 2026
- Regulation of neural connectivity and oscillations by cannabinoids: A review. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews September 7, 2026
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