Researchers have discovered that cannabis use may have long-term impacts on brain development, particularly in young adults. The study found that astrocytes, a type of glial cell in the brain, play a crucial role in regulating brain plasticity during early development.
The researchers used a mouse model to investigate how CB1 receptors, which are activated by cannabis-like substances, affect brain development. They discovered that removing these receptors from astrocytes impaired the brain’s ability to adapt during critical periods of plasticity, particularly in the visual cortex.
This suggests that disrupting CB1 receptor activity during development may have negative consequences for learning and brain function. The study highlights the importance of understanding how cannabis use can affect brain development, particularly in young adults.
The findings also provide insight into why some studies are inconclusive about the long-term effects of cannabis on the brain. The researchers believe that disrupting the CB1 receptor activity during critical periods of plasticity may be responsible for some of the negative consequences associated with cannabis use.
Overall, this study provides valuable information about the potential risks of cannabis use in young adults and highlights the need for further research into the long-term effects of cannabis on brain development.
Source: https://neurosciencenews.com/cb1-astrocytes-cannabis-neuroplasticity-28163