Neural and Behavioral Correlates Associated with Adolescent Marijuana Use

Purpose of ReviewMarijuana (MJ) is one of the most commonly used drugs among adolescents. Exposure to MJ during adolescence can lead to alterations in brain development, and subsequently, to the behavioral correlates regulated by the affected brain regions. In this review, we discuss findings from preclinical and human studies examining the relationship between adolescent MJ use and the neurobiological and behavioral correlates associated with it.Recent FindingsCurrent findings indicate that adolescent MJ use is associated with alterations in brain structure and function, especially in regions that express high levels of the cannabinoid 1 receptor such as the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, and limbic regions. These alterations are correlated with changes in affective, cognitive, and reward-seeking behavior. Furthermore, evidence suggests that exposure to MJ during adolescence can have long-lasting and pronounced neural and behavioral effects into adulthood.SummaryThe wide-ranging neural and behavioral correlates associated with MJ use during adolescence highlight the need for further studies to better understand the potential risk factors and/or neurotoxic effects of adolescent MJ use.