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Boer OD, El Marroun H, Muetzel RL. Adolescent substance use initiation and long-term neurobiological outcomes: insights, challenges and opportunities. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:2211-2222. [PMID: 38409597 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02471-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The increased frequency of risk taking behavior combined with marked neuromaturation has positioned adolescence as a focal point of research into the neural causes and consequences of substance use. However, little work has provided a summary of the links between adolescent initiated substance use and longer-term brain outcomes. Here we review studies exploring the long-term effects of adolescent-initiated substance use with structural and microstructural neuroimaging. A quarter of all studies reviewed conducted repeated neuroimaging assessments. Long-term alcohol use, as well as tobacco use were consistently associated with smaller frontal cortices and altered white matter microstructure. This association was mostly observed in the ACC, insula and subcortical regions in alcohol users, and for the OFC in tobacco users. Long-term cannabis use was mostly related to altered frontal cortices and hippocampal volumes. Interestingly, cannabis users scanned more years after use initiation tended to show smaller measures of these regions, whereas those with fewer years since initiation showed larger measures. Long-term stimulant use tended to show a similar trend as cannabis in terms of years since initiation in measures of the putamen, insula and frontal cortex. Long-term opioid use was mostly associated with smaller subcortical and insular volumes. Of note, null findings were reported in all substance use categories, most often in cannabis use studies. In the context of the large variety in study designs, substance use assessment, methods, and sample characteristics, we provide recommendations on how to interpret these findings, and considerations for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga D Boer
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies - Erasmus School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hanan El Marroun
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies - Erasmus School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ryan L Muetzel
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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2
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Cai B, Tang J, Sang H, Zhang Z, Wang A. Differential effects of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) on attentional guidance by working memory in males with substance use disorder according to memory modality. Brain Cogn 2024; 177:106149. [PMID: 38579372 DOI: 10.1016/j.bandc.2024.106149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Information stored in working memory can guide perception selection, and this process is modulated by cognitive control. Although previous studies have demonstrated that neurostimulation over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (lDLPFC) contributes to restore cognitive control among individuals with substance use disorder (SUD), there remains an open question about the potential stimulation effects on memory-driven attention. To address this issue, the present study adopted a combined working memory/attention paradigm while employing high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) to stimulate the lDLPFC. Observers were asked to maintain visual or audiovisual information in memory while executing a search task, while the validity of the memory contents for the subsequent search task could be either invalid or neutral. The results showed a faint memory-driven attentional suppression effect in sham stimulation only under the audiovisual condition. Moreover, anodal HD-tDCS facilitated attentional suppression effect in both the strength and temporal dynamics under the visual-only condition, whereas the effect was impaired or unchanged under the audiovisual condition. Surprisingly, cathodal HD-tDCS selectively improved temporal dynamics of the attentional suppression effect under the audiovisual condition. The present study revealed the differential enhancement of HD-tDCS on cognitive control over visual and audiovisual memory-driven attention among individuals with SUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biye Cai
- Department of Psychology, Research Center for Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; School of Physical Education and Sports Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Junjie Tang
- Taihu Compulsory Isolated Detoxification Center in Jiangsu Province, Suzhou, China
| | - Hanbin Sang
- Key Laboratory of Child Cognition & Behavior Development of Hainan Province, Haikou, China; School of Teacher Education, Qiongtai Normal University, Haikou, China.
| | - Zonghao Zhang
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Aijun Wang
- Department of Psychology, Research Center for Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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Hernandez Mejia M, Courtney KE, Wade NE, Wallace A, Baca RE, Shen Q, Happer JP, Jacobus J. The Combined Effects of Nicotine and Cannabis on Cortical Thickness Estimates in Adolescents and Emerging Adults. Brain Sci 2024; 14:195. [PMID: 38539584 PMCID: PMC10967898 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14030195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Early life substance use, including cannabis and nicotine, may result in deleterious effects on the maturation of brain tissue and gray matter cortical development. The current study employed linear regression models to investigate the main and interactive effects of past-year nicotine and cannabis use on gray matter cortical thickness estimates in 11 bilateral independent frontal cortical regions in 223 16-22-year-olds. As the frontal cortex develops throughout late adolescence and young adulthood, this period becomes crucial for studying the impact of substance use on brain structure. The distinct effects of nicotine and cannabis use status on cortical thickness were found bilaterally, as cannabis and nicotine users both had thinner cortices than non-users. Interactions between nicotine and cannabis were also observed, in which cannabis use was associated with thicker cortices for those with a history of nicotine and tobacco product (NTP) use in three left frontal regions. This study sheds light on the intricate relationship between substance use and brain structure, suggesting a potential modulation of cannabis' impact on cortical thickness by nicotine exposure, and emphasizing the need for further longitudinal research to characterize these interactions and their implications for brain health and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margie Hernandez Mejia
- San Diego State University/University of California San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
| | - Kelly E. Courtney
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Natasha E. Wade
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Alexander Wallace
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Rachel E. Baca
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Qian Shen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | | | - Joanna Jacobus
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
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Xu H, Li J, Huang H, Yin B, Li DD. Abnormal developmental of structural covariance networks in young adults with heavy cannabis use: a 3-year follow-up study. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:45. [PMID: 38245512 PMCID: PMC10799944 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02764-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Heavy cannabis use (HCU) exerts adverse effects on the brain. Structural covariance networks (SCNs) that illustrate coordinated regional maturation patterns are extensively employed to examine abnormalities in brain structure. Nevertheless, the unexplored aspect remains the developmental alterations of SCNs in young adults with HCU for three years, from the baseline (BL) to the 3-year follow-up (FU). These changes demonstrate dynamic development and hold potential as biomarkers. A total of 20 young adults with HCU and 22 matched controls were recruited. All participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans at both the BL and FU and were evaluated using clinical measures. Both groups used cortical thickness (CT) and cortical surface area (CSA) to construct structural covariance matrices. Subsequently, global and nodal network measures of SCNs were computed based on these matrices. Regarding global network measures, the BL assessment revealed significant deviations in small-worldness and local efficiency of CT and CSA in young adults with HCU compared to controls. However, no significant differences between the two groups were observed at the FU evaluation. Young adults with HCU displayed changes in nodal network measures across various brain regions during the transition from BL to FU. These alterations included abnormal nodal degree, nodal efficiency, and nodal betweenness in widespread areas such as the entorhinal cortex, superior frontal gyrus, and parahippocampal cortex. These findings suggest that the topography of CT and CSA plays a role in the typical structural covariance topology of the brain. Furthermore, these results indicate the effect of HCU on the developmental changes of SCNs in young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xu
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
- The Affiliated Kangning Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorder, Wenzhou, 325007, China.
| | - Jiahao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Huan Huang
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Bo Yin
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Dan-Dong Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
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Seidenbecher S, Schöne M, Kaufmann J, Schiltz K, Bogerts B, Frodl T. Neuroanatomical correlates of aggressiveness: a case-control voxel- and surface-based morphometric study. Brain Struct Funct 2024; 229:31-46. [PMID: 37819409 PMCID: PMC10827843 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-023-02715-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Aggression occurs across the population ranging on a symptom continuum. Most previous studies have used magnetic resonance imaging in clinical/forensic samples, which is associated with several confounding factors. The present study examined structural brain characteristics in two healthy samples differing only in their propensity for aggressive behavior. Voxel- and surface-based morphometry (SBM) analyses were performed on 29 male martial artists and 32 age-matched male controls. Martial artists had significantly increased mean gray matter volume in two frontal (left superior frontal gyrus and bilateral anterior cingulate cortex) and one parietal (bilateral posterior cingulate gyrus and precuneus) brain clusters compared to controls (whole brain: p < 0.001, cluster level: family-wise error (FWE)-corrected). SBM analyses revealed a trend for greater gyrification indices in martial artists compared to controls in the left lateral orbital frontal cortex and the left pars orbitalis (whole brain: p < 0.001, cluster level: FWE-corrected). The results indicate brain structural differences between martial artists and controls in frontal and parietal brain areas critical for emotion processing/inhibition of emotions as well as empathic processes. The present study highlights the importance of studying healthy subjects with a propensity for aggressive behavior in future structural MRI research on aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Seidenbecher
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Maria Schöne
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jörn Kaufmann
- Department of Neurology, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Kolja Schiltz
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Psychiatric Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Bogerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Salus-Institute, Salus gGmbH, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Frodl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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Scott JC. Impact of Adolescent Cannabis Use on Neurocognitive and Brain Development. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2023; 46:655-676. [PMID: 37879830 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2023.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Research examining associations between frequent cannabis use in adolescence and brain-behavior outcomes has increased substantially over the past 2 decades. This review attempts to synthesize the state of evidence in this area of research while acknowledging challenges in interpretation. Although there is converging evidence that ongoing, frequent cannabis use in adolescence is associated with small reductions in cognitive functioning, there is still significant debate regarding the persistence of reductions after a period of abstinence. Similarly, there is controversy regarding the replicability of structural and functional neuroimaging findings related to frequent cannabis use in adolescence. Larger studies with informative designs are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cobb Scott
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3700 Hamilton Walk, 5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; VISN4 Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center at the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Soleimani G, Towhidkhah F, Saviz M, Ekhtiari H. Cortical Morphology in Cannabis Use Disorder: Implications for Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Treatment. Basic Clin Neurosci 2023; 14:647-662. [PMID: 38628838 PMCID: PMC11016884 DOI: 10.32598/bcn.2021.3400.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been studied as an adjunctive treatment option for substance use disorders (SUDs). Alterations in brain structure following SUD may change tDCS-induced electric field (EF) and subsequent responses; however, group-level differences between healthy controls (HC) and participants with SUDs in terms of EF and its association with cortical architecture have not yet been modeled quantitatively. This study provides a methodology for group-level analysis of computational head models to investigate the influence of cortical morphology metrics on EFs. Methods Whole-brain surface-based morphology was conducted, and cortical thickness, volume, and surface area were compared between participants with cannabis use disorders (CUD) (n=20) and age-matched HC (n=22). Meanwhile, EFs were simulated for bilateral tDCS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. The effects of structural alterations on EF distribution were investigated based on individualized computational head models. Results Regarding EF, no significant difference was found within the prefrontal cortex; however, EFs were significantly different in left-postcentral and right-superior temporal gyrus (P<0.05) with higher levels of variance in CUD compared to HC [F(39, 43)=5.31, P<0.0001, C=0.95]. Significant differences were observed in cortical area (caudal anterior cingulate and rostral middle frontal), thickness (lateral orbitofrontal), and volume (paracentral and fusiform) between the two groups. Conclusion Brain morphology and tDCS-induced EFs may be changed following CUD; however, differences between CUD and HCs in EFs do not always overlap with brain areas that show structural alterations. To sufficiently modulate stimulation targets, whether individuals with CUD need different stimulation doses based on tDCS target location should be checked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazaleh Soleimani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Towhidkhah
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Saviz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Ekhtiari
- Laureate Institute of Brain Research, Tulsa, United States of America
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Dan-Glauser E, Framorando D, Solida-Tozzi A, Golay P, Gholam MM, Alameda L, Conus P, Moulin V. Evolution of impulsivity levels in relation to early cannabis use in violent patients in the early phase of psychosis. Psychol Med 2023; 53:3210-3219. [PMID: 35142601 PMCID: PMC10235661 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721005316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevention of violent behaviors (VB) in the early phase of psychosis (EPP) is a real challenge. Impulsivity was shown to be strongly related to VB, and different evolutions of impulsivity were noticed along treatments. One possible variable involved in the relationship between VB and the evolution of impulsivity is cannabis use (CU). The high prevalence of CU in EPP and its relationship with VB led us to investigate: 1/the impact of CU and 2/the impact of early CU on the evolution of impulsivity levels during a 3-year program, in violent and non-violent EPP patients. METHODS 178 non-violent and 62 violent patients (VPs) were followed-up over a 3 year period. Age of onset of CU was assessed at program entry and impulsivity was assessed seven times during the program. The evolution of impulsivity level during the program, as a function of the violent and non-violent groups of patients and CU precocity were analyzed with linear mixed-effects models. RESULTS Over the treatment period, impulsivity level did not evolve as a function of the interaction between group and CU (coef. = 0.02, p = 0.425). However, when including precocity of CU, impulsivity was shown to increase significantly only in VPs who start consuming before 15 years of age (coef. = 0.06, p = 0.008). CONCLUSION The precocity of CU in VPs seems to be a key variable of the negative evolution of impulsivity during follow-up and should be closely monitored in EPP patients entering care since they have a higher risk of showing VB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Dan-Glauser
- Department of psychiatry, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Psychology, Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Framorando
- Department of psychiatry, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alessandra Solida-Tozzi
- Department of Psychiatry, Service of General Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Golay
- Department of Psychiatry, Service of General Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - M. Mehdi Gholam
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Psychiatric Epidemiology and Psychopathology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luis Alameda
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Sevilla, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Department of Psychiatry, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
- Service of General Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Conus
- Department of Psychiatry, Service of General Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Valerie Moulin
- Department of psychiatry, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Lorenzetti V, Kowalczyk M, Duehlmeyer L, Greenwood LM, Chye Y, Yücel M, Whittle S, Roberts CA. Brain Anatomical Alterations in Young Cannabis Users: Is it All Hype? A Meta-Analysis of Structural Neuroimaging Studies. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:184-196. [PMID: 35443799 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabis use has a high prevalence in young youth and is associated with poor psychosocial outcomes. Such outcomes have been ascribed to the impact of cannabis exposure on the developing brain. However, findings from individual studies of volumetry in youth cannabis users are equivocal. Objectives: Our primary objective was to systematically review the evidence on brain volume differences between young cannabis users and nonusers aged 12-26 where profound neuromaturation occurs, accounting for the role of global brain volumes (GBVs). Our secondary objective was to systematically integrate the findings on the association between youth age and volumetry in youth cannabis users. Finally, we aimed to evaluate the quality of the evidence. Materials and Methods: A systematic search was run in three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO) and was reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We run meta-analyses (with and without controlling for GBV) of brain volume differences between young cannabis users and nonusers. We conducted metaregressions to explore the role of age on volumetric differences. Results: Sixteen studies were included. The reviewed samples included 830 people with mean age 22.5 years (range 14-26 years). Of these, 386 were cannabis users (with cannabis use onset at 15-19 years) and 444 were controls. We found no detectable group differences in any of the GBVs (intracranium, total brain, total white matter, and total gray matter) and regional brain volumes (i.e., hippocampus, amygdala, orbitofrontal cortex, and total cerebellum). Age and cannabis use level did not predict (standardized mean) volume group differences in metaregression. We found little evidence of publication bias (Egger's test p>0.1). Conclusions: Contrary to evidence in adult samples (or in samples mixing adults and youth), previous single studies in young cannabis users, and meta-analyses of brain function in young cannabis users, this early evidence suggests nonsignificant volume differences between young cannabis users and nonusers. While prolonged and long-term exposure to heavy cannabis use may be required to detect gross volume alterations, more studies in young cannabis users are needed to map in detail cannabis-related neuroanatomical changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lorenzetti
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Magdalena Kowalczyk
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Leonie Duehlmeyer
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Lisa-Marie Greenwood
- Research School of Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Yann Chye
- BrainPark, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Clayton, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- BrainPark, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Clayton, Australia
| | - Sarah Whittle
- Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - Carl A Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Impaired Ghrelin Signaling Does Not Lead to Alterations of Anxiety-like Behaviors in Adult Mice Chronically Exposed to THC during Adolescence. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11010144. [PMID: 36672651 PMCID: PMC9855766 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
As marijuana use during adolescence has been increasing, the need to understand the effects of its long-term use becomes crucial. Previous research suggested that marijuana consumption during adolescence increases the risk of developing mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Ghrelin is a peptide produced primarily in the gut and is important for feeding behavior. Recent studies have shown that ghrelin and its receptor, the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), play important roles in mediating stress, as well as anxiety and depression-like behaviors in animal models. Here, we investigated the effects of chronic tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) administration during late adolescence (P42-55) in GHSR (GHSR -/-) knockout mice and their wild-type littermates in relation to anxiety-like behaviors. We determined that continuous THC exposure during late adolescence did not lead to any significant alterations in the anxiety-like behaviors of adult mice, regardless of genotype, following a prolonged period of no exposure (1 month). These data indicate that in the presence of intact or impaired ghrelin/GHSR signaling, THC exposure during late adolescence has limited if any long-term impact on anxiety-like behaviors in mice.
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Abstract
Research examining associations between frequent cannabis use in adolescence and brain-behavior outcomes has increased substantially over the past 2 decades. This review attempts to synthesize the state of evidence in this area of research while acknowledging challenges in interpretation. Although there is converging evidence that ongoing, frequent cannabis use in adolescence is associated with small reductions in cognitive functioning, there is still significant debate regarding the persistence of reductions after a period of abstinence. Similarly, there is controversy regarding the replicability of structural and functional neuroimaging findings related to frequent cannabis use in adolescence. Larger studies with informative designs are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cobb Scott
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3700 Hamilton Walk, 5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; VISN4 Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center at the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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12
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Yang W, Wang S, Luo J, Yan C, Tang F, Du Y, Fan L, Zhang M, Zhang J, Yuan K, Liu J. Longitudinal resting-state functional connectivity changes in the insular subdivisions of abstinent individuals with opioid use disorder. Psychiatry Res 2022; 317:114808. [PMID: 36055065 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
The insular cortex plays a critical role in reward circuitry involved with drug craving in substance use disorders. This study aimed to investigate whether opioid use disorder exhibit functional alterations in the insular circuitry after abstinence. Sixty-one opioid use disorder underwent resting-state and 3D-T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and completed craving questionnaires at baseline and after 8 months of abstinence. Changes in resting-state functional connectivity in the insular cortex and their correlations with craving were analyzed. Craving was reduced at follow-up compared with baseline. Compared with that at baseline, there was significantly increased resting-state functional connectivity between the right insular cortex and the superior frontal gyrus/anterior cingulate gyrus (family-wise error corrected) at follow-up. Changes in the functional connectivity of the right dorsal anterior insula/posterior insula with the bilateral superior frontal gyrus were negatively correlated with changes in craving. Our results demonstrated the presence of changes in functional connectivity of the insula in opioid use disorder after protracted abstinence, providing novel evidence of a correlation between craving changes and changes in the neurocircuitry of insular cortex subdivision after abstinence. This study reveals the possibility of neuroplasticity after protracted abstinence, providing insight for future abstinence therapies and rehabilitation procedures for patients with substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhan Yang
- Department of Radiology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shicong Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Radiology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Cui Yan
- Department of Radiology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Tang
- Department of Radiology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yanyao Du
- Department of Radiology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Li Fan
- Department of Radiology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Min Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Hunan Judicial Police Academy, Changsha, PR China
| | - Kai Yuan
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, PR China; International Joint Research Center for Advanced Medical Imaging and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment & Xi'an Key Laboratory of Intelligent Sensing and Regulation of trans-Scale Life Information, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710126, PR China; Information Processing Laboratory, School of Information Engineering, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia 014010, PR China.
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Radiology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Clinical Research Center for Medical Imaging in Hunan Province, Changsha, PR China; Department of Radiology Quality Control Center in Hunan Province, Changsha, PR China.
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Niklason GR, Rawls E, Ma S, Kummerfeld E, Maxwell AM, Brucar LR, Drossel G, Zilverstand A. Explainable machine learning analysis reveals sex and gender differences in the phenotypic and neurobiological markers of Cannabis Use Disorder. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15624. [PMID: 36115920 PMCID: PMC9482622 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19804-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) has been linked to a complex set of neuro-behavioral risk factors. While many studies have revealed sex and gender differences, the relative importance of these risk factors by sex and gender has not been described. We used an “explainable” machine learning approach that combined decision trees [gradient tree boosting, XGBoost] with factor ranking tools [SHapley’s Additive exPlanations (SHAP)] to investigate sex and gender differences in CUD. We confirmed that previously identified environmental, personality, mental health, neurocognitive, and brain factors highly contributed to the classification of cannabis use levels and diagnostic status. Risk factors with larger effect sizes in men included personality (high openness), mental health (high externalizing, high childhood conduct disorder, high fear somaticism), neurocognitive (impulsive delay discounting, slow working memory performance) and brain (low hippocampal volume) factors. Conversely, risk factors with larger effect sizes in women included environmental (low education level, low instrumental support) factors. In summary, environmental factors contributed more strongly to CUD in women, whereas individual factors had a larger importance in men.
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Lichenstein SD, Manco N, Cope LM, Egbo L, Garrison KA, Hardee J, Hillmer AT, Reeder K, Stern EF, Worhunsky P, Yip SW. Systematic review of structural and functional neuroimaging studies of cannabis use in adolescence and emerging adulthood: evidence from 90 studies and 9441 participants. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:1000-1028. [PMID: 34839363 PMCID: PMC8938408 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01226-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis use peaks in adolescence, and adolescents may be more vulnerable to the neural effects of cannabis and cannabis-related harms due to ongoing brain development during this period. In light of ongoing cannabis policy changes, increased availability, reduced perceptions of harm, heightened interest in medicinal applications of cannabis, and drastic increases in cannabis potency, it is essential to establish an understanding of cannabis effects on the developing adolescent brain. This systematic review aims to: (1) synthesize extant literature on functional and structural neural alterations associated with cannabis use during adolescence and emerging adulthood; (2) identify gaps in the literature that critically impede our ability to accurately assess the effect of cannabis on adolescent brain function and development; and (3) provide recommendations for future research to bridge these gaps and elucidate the mechanisms underlying cannabis-related harms in adolescence and emerging adulthood, with the long-term goal of facilitating the development of improved prevention, early intervention, and treatment approaches targeting adolescent cannabis users (CU). Based on a systematic search of Medline and PsycInfo and other non-systematic sources, we identified 90 studies including 9441 adolescents and emerging adults (n = 3924 CU, n = 5517 non-CU), which provide preliminary evidence for functional and structural alterations in frontoparietal, frontolimbic, frontostriatal, and cerebellar regions among adolescent cannabis users. Larger, more rigorous studies are essential to reconcile divergent results, assess potential moderators of cannabis effects on the developing brain, disentangle risk factors for use from consequences of exposure, and elucidate the extent to which cannabis effects are reversible with abstinence. Guidelines for conducting this work are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nick Manco
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Lora M Cope
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Leslie Egbo
- Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT, USA
| | | | - Jillian Hardee
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ansel T Hillmer
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kristen Reeder
- Department of Internal Medicine, East Carolina University/Vidant Medical Center, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Elisa F Stern
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Patrick Worhunsky
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sarah W Yip
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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15
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Harris JC, Wallace AL, Thomas AM, Wirtz HG, Kaiver CM, Lisdahl KM. Disrupted Resting State Attentional Network Connectivity in Adolescent and Young Adult Cannabis Users following Two-Weeks of Monitored Abstinence. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12020287. [PMID: 35204050 PMCID: PMC8870263 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Numerous neuropsychological studies have shown that cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood led to deficits in sustained and selective attention. However, few studies have examined functional connectivity in attentional networks among young cannabis users, nor have characterized relationships with cannabis use patterns following abstinence. Methods. Differences in resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) within the dorsal (DAN) and ventral (VAN) attention networks were examined in 36 adolescent and young adult cannabis users and 39 non-substance using controls following two weeks of monitored abstinence. Observed connectivity differences were then correlated with past-year and lifetime cannabis use, length of abstinence, age of regular use onset, and Cannabis Use Disorder symptoms (CUD). Results. After controlling for alcohol and nicotine use, cannabis users had lower RSFC within the DAN network, specifically between right inferior parietal sulcus and right anterior insula, as well as white matter, relative to controls. This region was associated with more severe cannabis use measures, including increased lifetime cannabis use, shorter length of abstinence, and more severe CUD symptoms. Conclusions. Findings demonstrate that regular cannabis use by adolescents and young adults is associated with subtle differences in resting state connectivity within the DAN, even after two weeks of monitored abstinence. Notably, more severe cannabis use markers (greater lifetime use, CUD symptoms, and shorter abstinence) were linked with this reduced connectivity. Thus, findings support public policy aimed at reducing and delaying cannabis use and treatments to assist with sustained abstinence. Future longitudinal studies are needed to investigate causation.
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16
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Moulin V, Framorando D, Gasser J, Dan-Glauser E. The Link Between Cannabis Use and Violent Behavior in the Early Phase of Psychosis: The Potential Role of Impulsivity. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:746287. [PMID: 35392388 PMCID: PMC8980530 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.746287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recently, the literature has shown that Cannabis Use (CU) was a risk factor for Violent Behavior (VB) in patients with psychosis, and those in the early phase of psychosis (EPP). These findings are relevant because of the high prevalence of CU in this EPP, and the potential for prevention during this phase of illness. However, there is still a lack of clear explanations, supported by empirical evidence, about what underlies the link between CU and VB against other. METHOD This viewpoint reviews the scientific literature on the link between CU and VB, and the involvement of impulsivity in this relationship. This last point will be addressed at clinical and neurobiological levels. RESULTS Recent studies confirmed that CU is particularly high in the EPP, and is a risk factor for VB in the EPP and schizophrenia. Studies have also shown that impulsivity is a risk factor for VB in psychosis, is associated with CU, and may mediate the link between CU and VB. Research suggests a neurobiological mechanism, as CU affects the structures and function of frontal areas, known to play a role in impulsive behavior. CONCLUSION Scientific evidence support the hypothesis of an involvement of impulsivity as a variable that could mediate the link between CU and aggression, particularly, when CU has an early onset. However, this hypothesis should be confirmed with longitudinal studies and by taking into account confounding factors. The studies highlight the relevance of early prevention in the EPP, in addition to interventions focusing on psychotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Moulin
- Unit for Research in Legal Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Framorando
- Unit for Research in Legal Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jacques Gasser
- Unit for Research in Legal Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Elise Dan-Glauser
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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17
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Luo Z, Fitting S, Robinson C, Benitez A, Li M, Wu Y, Fu X, Amato D, Ning W, Funderburg N, Wang X, Zhou Z, Yu X, Wagner A, Cong X, Xu W, Maas K, Wolf BJ, Huang L, Yu J, Scott A, Mcrae-Clark A, Hamlett ED, Jiang W. Chronic cannabis smoking-enriched oral pathobiont drives behavioral changes, macrophage infiltration, and increases β-amyloid protein production in the brain. EBioMedicine 2021; 74:103701. [PMID: 34826801 PMCID: PMC8626580 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about chronic cannabis smoking-associated oral microbiome and its effects on central nervous system (CNS) functions. METHODS In the current study, we have analyzed the saliva microbiome in individuals who chronically smoked cannabis with cannabis use disorder (n = 16) and in non-smoking controls (n = 27). The saliva microbiome was analyzed using microbial 16S rRNA sequencing. To investigate the function of cannabis use-associated oral microbiome, mice were orally inoculated with live Actinomyces meyeri, Actinomyces odontolyticus, or Neisseria elongata twice per week for six months, which mimicked human conditions. FINDINGS We found that cannabis smoking in humans was associated with oral microbial dysbiosis. The most increased oral bacteria were Streptococcus and Actinomyces genus and the most decreased bacteria were Neisseria genus in chronic cannabis smokers compared to those in non-smokers. Among the distinct species bacteria in cannabis smokers, the enrichment of Actinomyces meyeri was inversely associated with the age of first cannabis smoking. Strikingly, oral exposure of Actinomyces meyeri, an oral pathobiont, but not the other two control bacteria, decreased global activity, increased macrophage infiltration, and increased β-amyloid 42 protein production in the mouse brains. INTERPRETATION This is the first study to reveal that long-term oral cannabis exposure is associated oral enrichment of Actinomyces meyeri and its contributions to CNS abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwu Luo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Sylvia Fitting
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Catrina Robinson
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Andreana Benitez
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Min Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Yongxia Wu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Fu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425, USA; Department of Infectious Disease, Key Laboratory of Hunan Viral Hepatitis, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Davide Amato
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Wangbin Ning
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425, USA; Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Nicholas Funderburg
- Division of Medical Laboratory Science, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425, USA; Department of Urology, Capital Medical University Affiliated XuanWu Hospital, 45 Changchun Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Zejun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, China
| | - Xuezhong Yu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Amanda Wagner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Xiaomei Cong
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, School of Nursing, Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Wanli Xu
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, School of Nursing, Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Kendra Maas
- Microbial Analysis, Resources, and Services, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Bethany J Wolf
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Lei Huang
- Treatment and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jeremy Yu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Alison Scott
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Aimee Mcrae-Clark
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Eric D Hamlett
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
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Liu Y, Nie B, Liu T, Zheng N, Liu Z, Shan B, Jiang L, Manyande A, Li X, Xu F, Wang J. Variations of Brain Functional Connectivity in Alcohol-Preferring and Non-Preferring Rats with Consecutive Alcohol Training or Acute Alcohol Administration. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11111474. [PMID: 34827473 PMCID: PMC8615902 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol addiction is regarded as a series of dynamic changes to neural circuitries. A comparison of the global network during different stages of alcohol addiction could provide an efficient way to understand the neurobiological basis of addiction. Two animal models (P-rats screened from an alcohol preference family, and NP-rats screened from an alcohol non-preference family) were trained for alcohol preference with a two-bottle free choice method for 4 weeks. To examine the changes in the neural response to alcohol during the development of alcohol preference and acute stimulation, different trials were studied with resting-state fMRI methods during different periods of alcohol preference. The correlation coefficients of 28 regions in the whole brain were calculated, and the results were compared for alcohol preference related to the genetic background/training association. The variety of coherence patterns was highly related to the state and development of alcohol preference. We observed significant special brain connectivity changes during alcohol preference in P-rats. The comparison between the P- and NP-rats highlighted the role of genetic background in alcohol preference. The results of this study support the alterations of the neural network connection during the formation of alcohol preference and confirm that alcohol preference is highly related to the genetic background. This study could provide an effective approach for understanding the neurobiological basis of alcohol addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences—Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.L.); (T.L.); (N.Z.); (Z.L.)
| | - Binbin Nie
- Key Laboratory of Nuclear Radiation and Nuclear Energy Technology, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; (B.N.); (B.S.)
| | - Taotao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences—Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.L.); (T.L.); (N.Z.); (Z.L.)
| | - Ning Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences—Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.L.); (T.L.); (N.Z.); (Z.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zeyuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences—Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.L.); (T.L.); (N.Z.); (Z.L.)
| | - Baoci Shan
- Key Laboratory of Nuclear Radiation and Nuclear Energy Technology, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; (B.N.); (B.S.)
| | - Lihong Jiang
- Magnetic Resonance Research Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA;
| | - Anne Manyande
- School of Human and Social Sciences, University of West London, Middlesex TW8 9GA, UK;
| | - Xihai Li
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China;
| | - Fuqiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences—Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.L.); (T.L.); (N.Z.); (Z.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- Correspondence: (F.X.); (J.W.)
| | - Jie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences—Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.L.); (T.L.); (N.Z.); (Z.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Correspondence: (F.X.); (J.W.)
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Neuroimaging evidence for structural correlates in adolescents resilient to polysubstance use: A five-year follow-up study. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 49:11-22. [PMID: 33770525 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Early initiation of polysubstance use (PSU) is a strong predictor of subsequent addiction, however scarce individuals present resilience capacity. This neuroimaging study aimed to investigate structural correlates associated with cessation or reduction of PSU and determine the extent to which brain structural features accounted for this resilient outcome. Participants from a European community-based cohort self-reported their alcohol, tobacco and cannabis use frequency at ages 14, 16 and 19 and had neuroimaging sessions at ages 14 and 19. We included three groups in the study: the resilient-to-PSU participants showed PSU at 16 and/or 14 but no more at 19 (n = 18), the enduring polysubstance users at 19 displayed PSU continuation from 14 or 16 (n = 193) and the controls were abstinent or low drinking participants (n = 460). We conducted between-group comparisons of grey matter volumes on whole brain using voxel-based morphometry and regional fractional anisotropy using tract-based spatial statistics. Random-forests machine-learning approach generated individual-level PSU-behavior predictions based on personality and neuroimaging features. Adolescents resilient to PSU showed significant larger grey matter volumes in the bilateral cingulate gyrus compared with enduring polysubstance users and controls at ages 19 and 14 (p<0.05 corrected) but no difference in fractional anisotropy. The larger cingulate volumes and personality trait "openness to experience" were the best precursors of resilience to PSU. Early in adolescence, a larger cingulate gyrus differentiated adolescents resilient to PSU, and this feature was critical in predicting this outcome. This study encourages further research into the neurobiological bases of resilience to addictive behaviors.
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Reversing the Psychiatric Effects of Neurodevelopmental Cannabinoid Exposure: Exploring Pharmacotherapeutic Interventions for Symptom Improvement. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157861. [PMID: 34360626 PMCID: PMC8346164 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental exposure to psychoactive compounds in cannabis, specifically THC, is associated with a variety of long-term psychopathological outcomes. This increased risk includes a higher prevalence of schizophrenia, mood and anxiety disorders, and cognitive impairments. Clinical and pre-clinical research continues to identify a wide array of underlying neuropathophysiological sequelae and mechanisms that may underlie THC-related psychiatric risk vulnerability, particularly following adolescent cannabis exposure. A common theme among these studies is the ability of developmental THC exposure to induce long-term adaptations in the mesocorticolimbic system which resemble pathological endophenotypes associated with these disorders. This narrative review will summarize recent clinical and pre-clinical evidence that has elucidated these THC-induced developmental risk factors and examine how specific pharmacotherapeutic interventions may serve to reverse or perhaps prevent these cannabis-related risk outcomes.
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21
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Albaugh MD, Ottino-Gonzalez J, Sidwell A, Lepage C, Juliano A, Owens MM, Chaarani B, Spechler P, Fontaine N, Rioux P, Lewis L, Jeon S, Evans A, D’Souza D, Radhakrishnan R, Banaschewski T, Bokde ALW, Quinlan EB, Conrod P, Desrivières S, Flor H, Grigis A, Gowland P, Heinz A, Ittermann B, Martinot JL, Paillère Martinot ML, Nees F, Papadopoulos Orfanos D, Paus T, Poustka L, Millenet S, Fröhner JH, Smolka MN, Walter H, Whelan R, Schumann G, Potter A, Garavan H. Association of Cannabis Use During Adolescence With Neurodevelopment. JAMA Psychiatry 2021; 78:2781289. [PMID: 34132750 PMCID: PMC8209561 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2021.1258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Animal studies have shown that the adolescent brain is sensitive to disruptions in endocannabinoid signaling, resulting in altered neurodevelopment and lasting behavioral effects. However, few studies have investigated ties between cannabis use and adolescent brain development in humans. OBJECTIVE To examine the degree to which magnetic resonance (MR) imaging-assessed cerebral cortical thickness development is associated with cannabis use in a longitudinal sample of adolescents. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Data were obtained from the community-based IMAGEN cohort study, conducted across 8 European sites. Baseline data used in the present study were acquired from March 1, 2008, to December 31, 2011, and follow-up data were acquired from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2016. A total of 799 IMAGEN participants were identified who reported being cannabis naive at study baseline and had behavioral and neuroimaging data available at baseline and 5-year follow-up. Statistical analysis was performed from October 1, 2019, to August 31, 2020. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Cannabis use was assessed at baseline and 5-year follow-up with the European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs. Anatomical MR images were acquired with a 3-dimensional T1-weighted magnetization prepared gradient echo sequence. Quality-controlled native MR images were processed through the CIVET pipeline, version 2.1.0. RESULTS The study evaluated 1598 MR images from 799 participants (450 female participants [56.3%]; mean [SD] age, 14.4 [0.4] years at baseline and 19.0 [0.7] years at follow-up). At 5-year follow-up, cannabis use (from 0 to >40 uses) was negatively associated with thickness in left prefrontal (peak: t785 = -4.87, cluster size = 1558 vertices; P = 1.10 × 10-6, random field theory cluster corrected) and right prefrontal (peak: t785 = -4.27, cluster size = 1551 vertices; P = 2.81 × 10-5, random field theory cluster corrected) cortices. There were no significant associations between lifetime cannabis use at 5-year follow-up and baseline cortical thickness, suggesting that the observed neuroanatomical differences did not precede initiation of cannabis use. Longitudinal analysis revealed that age-related cortical thinning was qualified by cannabis use in a dose-dependent fashion such that greater use, from baseline to follow-up, was associated with increased thinning in left prefrontal (peak: t815.27 = -4.24, cluster size = 3643 vertices; P = 2.28 × 10-8, random field theory cluster corrected) and right prefrontal (peak: t813.30 = -4.71, cluster size = 2675 vertices; P = 3.72 × 10-8, random field theory cluster corrected) cortices. The spatial pattern of cannabis-related thinning was associated with age-related thinning in this sample (r = 0.540; P < .001), and a positron emission tomography-assessed cannabinoid 1 receptor-binding map derived from a separate sample of participants (r = -0.189; P < .001). Analysis revealed that thinning in right prefrontal cortices, from baseline to follow-up, was associated with attentional impulsiveness at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Results suggest that cannabis use during adolescence is associated with altered neurodevelopment, particularly in cortices rich in cannabinoid 1 receptors and undergoing the greatest age-related thickness change in middle to late adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Albaugh
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
| | | | - Amanda Sidwell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
| | - Claude Lepage
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anthony Juliano
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
| | - Max M. Owens
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
| | - Bader Chaarani
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
| | - Philip Spechler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
| | - Nicholas Fontaine
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
| | - Pierre Rioux
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Lindsay Lewis
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Seun Jeon
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alan Evans
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Deepak D’Souza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Rajiv Radhakrishnan
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Tobias Banaschewski
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Arun L. W. Bokde
- Discipline of Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Erin Burke Quinlan
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Precision Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Patricia Conrod
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sylvane Desrivières
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Precision Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Herta Flor
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Antoine Grigis
- NeuroSpin, Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Penny Gowland
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Heinz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Campus Charité Mitte, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Jean-Luc Martinot
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U A10 “Trajectoires développementales en psychiatrie” Université Paris-Saclay, Ecole Normale supérieure Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Centre Borelli, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Marie-Laure Paillère Martinot
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, INSERM U A10 “Trajectoires développementales en psychiatrie,” Paris, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Ecole Normale supérieure Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Centre Borelli, Paris, France
- AP-HP Sorbonne Université, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Frauke Nees
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Schleswig Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Tomáš Paus
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Luise Poustka
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sabina Millenet
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Juliane H. Fröhner
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroimaging Center, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael N. Smolka
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroimaging Center, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Henrik Walter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Campus Charité Mitte, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Whelan
- School of Psychology and Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gunter Schumann
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Precision Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Precision Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Precision Medicine Research Group, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charite Mitte, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
- Institute for Science and Technology of Brain-inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Alexandra Potter
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
| | - Hugh Garavan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington
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22
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Cannabis Use and Cognitive Impairment Among Male Adolescents: A Case-control Study. ADDICTIVE DISORDERS & THEIR TREATMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/adt.0000000000000257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
Academic performance significantly influences educational advancement, career opportunities, and life outcomes. The extent to which adolescent substance use and brain morphology predict academic achievement has not been extensively explored. We examined grade point average (GPA) at the time alcohol and cannabis use often starts (7th - 9th grade) and subsequently during 11th and 12th grade in a 170 physically healthy adolescents in a longitudinal study. Covariance analysis examined predictive features from 36 metrics of middle school academic performance and initiation of alcohol and cannabis use. Using a machine learning approach, GPA from 7th, 8th, and 9th grade strongly predicted 11th and 12th grade GPA, followed in predictive power by alcohol use age of onset. A machine learning approach determined 16 (from 336) baseline neuroimaging features that reflected lower thickness, area, or volume in average high school GPA drinkers compared to nondrinkers. Features that distinguished average performing drinkers from nondrinkers suggested accelerated gray matter loss during adolescence for drinkers, while high performing drinkers compared to nondrinkers may have attenuated gray matter maturation. Additional possibilities are discussed.
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24
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Sultan AA, Kennedy KG, Fiksenbaum L, MacIntosh BJ, Goldstein BI. Neurostructural Correlates of Cannabis Use in Adolescent Bipolar Disorder. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 24:181-190. [PMID: 33103721 PMCID: PMC7968618 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaa077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known regarding the association of cannabis use with brain structure in adolescents with bipolar disorder (BD). This subject is timely, given expanded availability of cannabis contemporaneously with increased social acceptance and diminished societal constraints to access. Therefore, we set out to examine this topic in a sample of adolescents with BD and healthy control (HC) adolescents. METHODS Participants included 144 adolescents (47 BD with cannabis use [BDCB+; including 13 with cannabis use disorder], 34 BD without cannabis use [BDCB-], 63 HC without cannabis use) ages 13-20 years. FreeSurfer-processed 3T MRI with T1-weighted contrast yielded measures of cortical thickness, surface area (SA), and volume. Region of interest (amygdala, hippocampus, ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and anterior cingulate cortex) analyses and exploratory vertex-wise analysis were undertaken. A general linear model tested for between-group differences, accounting for age, sex, and intracranial volume. RESULTS Vertex-wise analysis revealed significant group effects in frontal and parietal regions. In post-hoc analyses, BDCB+ exhibited larger volume and SA in parietal regions, and smaller thickness in frontal regions, relative to HC and BDCB-. BDCB- had smaller volume, SA, and thickness in parietal and frontal regions relative to HC. There were no significant region of interest findings after correcting for multiple comparisons. CONCLUSION This study found that cannabis use is associated with differences in regional brain structure among adolescents with BD. Future prospective studies are necessary to determine the direction of the observed association and to assess for dose effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysha A Sultan
- Centre for Youth Bipolar Disorder, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kody G Kennedy
- Centre for Youth Bipolar Disorder, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lisa Fiksenbaum
- Centre for Youth Bipolar Disorder, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Bradley J MacIntosh
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences & Physical Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
- Heart and Stroke Foundation Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Benjamin I Goldstein
- Centre for Youth Bipolar Disorder, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Heart and Stroke Foundation Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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25
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Kichloo A, Albosta M, Aljadah M, El-Amir Z, Goldar G, Khan MZ, Dahiya DS, Vallabhaneni S, Wani F, Singh J. Marijuana: A systems-based primer of adverse effects associated with use and an overview of its therapeutic utility. SAGE Open Med 2021; 9:20503121211000909. [PMID: 33786179 PMCID: PMC7958160 DOI: 10.1177/20503121211000909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Marijuana use is on the rise in the United States. By the end of 2019, 33 states have legalized marijuana use and marijuana byproduct use for medical purposes. However, marijuana use does not come without side effects. This manuscript reviews the increasing usage of marijuana and the different forms (natural and synthetic) that patients may use when presenting to clinicians. It also addresses the biochemical and behavioral changes observed with marijuana use, including the location and changes associated with cannabinoid receptors (abbreviated CB1 and CB2). These two topics lead into an extensive review of the side effects of marijuana use. This manuscript discusses gastrointestinal side-effects, such as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, pancreatitis, and hepatotoxicity. It also briefly reviews cardiovascular, neurologic, and pulmonary side effects. This article provides an overview of therapeutic effects of marijuana including the antiemetic effect, its medical utility as an appetite stimulant, and usefulness in cancer patients post-chemotherapy. A thorough social history pertaining to marijuana use is an important consideration for clinicians in patients presenting with a variety of symptoms, including those effecting the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, or neurologic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asim Kichloo
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | - Michael Albosta
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | - Michael Aljadah
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Zain El-Amir
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | - Ghazaleh Goldar
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Muhammed Zatmar Khan
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | - Dushyant Singh Dahiya
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | | | - Farah Wani
- Department of Family Medicine,
Samaritan Medical Center, Watertown, NY, USA
| | - Jagmeet Singh
- Department of Nephrology, Guthrie
Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA, USA
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26
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Rinehart L, Spencer S. Which came first: Cannabis use or deficits in impulse control? Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110066. [PMID: 32795592 PMCID: PMC7750254 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Impulse control deficits are often found to co-occur with substance use disorders (SUDs). On the one hand, it is well known that chronic intake of drugs of abuse remodels the brain with significant consequences for a range of cognitive behaviors. On the other hand, individual variation in impulse control may contribute to differences in susceptibility to SUDs. Both of these relationships have been described, thus leading to a "chicken or the egg" debate which remains to be fully resolved. Does impulsivity precede drug use or does it manifest as a function of problematic drug usage? The link between impulsivity and SUDs has been most strongly established for cocaine and alcohol use disorders using both preclinical models and clinical data. Much less is known about the potential link between impulsivity and cannabis use disorder (CUD) or the directionality of this relationship. The initiation of cannabis use occurs most often during adolescence prior to the brain's maturation, which is recognized as a critical period of development. The long-term effects of chronic cannabis use on the brain and behavior have started to be explored. In this review we will summarize these observations, especially as they pertain to the relationship between impulsivity and CUD, from both a psychological and biological perspective. We will discuss impulsivity as a multi-dimensional construct and attempt to reconcile the results obtained across modalities. Finally, we will discuss possible avenues for future research with emerging longitudinal data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Rinehart
- University of Minnesota, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | - Sade Spencer
- University of Minnesota, Department of Pharmacology, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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27
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Kroll DS, Feldman DE, Wang SYA, Zhang R, Manza P, Wiers CE, Volkow ND, Wang GJ. The associations of comorbid substance use disorders and psychiatric conditions with adolescent brain structure and function: A review. J Neurol Sci 2020; 418:117099. [PMID: 32866814 PMCID: PMC9003866 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.117099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence is a period of rapid neural and behavioral development that often precipitates substance use, substance use disorders (SUDs), and other psychopathology. While externalizing disorders have been closely linked to SUD epidemiologically, the comorbidity of internalizing disorders and SUD is less well understood. Neuroimaging studies can be used to measure structural and functional developments in the brain that mediate the relationship between psychopathology and SUD in adolescence. Externalizing disorders and SUD are both associated with structural and functional changes in the basal ganglia and prefrontal cortex in adolescence. The neural mechanisms underlying internalizing disorders and SUD are less clear, but evidence points to involvement of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. We also highlight independent contributions of SUD, which may vary in certain ways by the substances assessed. A deeper understanding of the neural basis of the relationship between psychopathology and SUD will allow for more informed interventions in this critical developmental stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle S Kroll
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 10 Center Dr, Rm B2L124, Bethesda, MD 20892-1013, USA
| | - Dana E Feldman
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 10 Center Dr, Rm B2L124, Bethesda, MD 20892-1013, USA
| | - Szu-Yung Ariel Wang
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 10 Center Dr, Rm B2L124, Bethesda, MD 20892-1013, USA
| | - Rui Zhang
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 10 Center Dr, Rm B2L124, Bethesda, MD 20892-1013, USA
| | - Peter Manza
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 10 Center Dr, Rm B2L124, Bethesda, MD 20892-1013, USA
| | - Corinde E Wiers
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 10 Center Dr, Rm B2L124, Bethesda, MD 20892-1013, USA
| | - Nora D Volkow
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 10 Center Dr, Rm B2L124, Bethesda, MD 20892-1013, USA; National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 5274, Bethesda, MD 20892-9581, USA
| | - Gene-Jack Wang
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 10 Center Dr, Rm B2L124, Bethesda, MD 20892-1013, USA.
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Functional connectome-based biomarkers predict chronic codeine-containing cough syrup dependent. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 130:333-341. [PMID: 32889355 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Codeine-containing cough syrup (CCS) is considered among the most popular drugs of abuse in adolescents worldwide. Accurate prediction and identification of CCS dependent (CCSD) users are crucial. This study aimed to identify a brain-connectome-based predictor of CCSD using a machine learning model based on a ten-fold cross-validation logistic regression (LR) classifier. METHODS 40 CCSD users and 40 healthy control (HC) subjects underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging to construct weight functional networks. Partial correlation analysis was used to analyze relations between abnormal network metrics and clinical characteristics (BIS total scores, CCS abuse duration, and mean CCS dose) in CCSD. A ten-fold cross-validation LR classifier was used to classify CCSD users and HC subjects. RESULTS The CCSD group showed significantly abnormal nodes and connections in the right posterior cingulate, right middle insula, bilateral prefrontal cortex, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, occipital lobe, and cerebellum. Furthermore, higher characteristic path length and lower clustering coefficient (Cp), global efficiency, and local efficiency (Eloc) were observed in the global topologies in CCSD. The abnormal global properties (Cp and Eloc) and node properties of the prefrontal cortex were significantly correlated with clinical characteristics (BIS-11 scores, CCS abuse duration) in CCSD. The LR classifier models demonstrated accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, and AUC of 82.5%, 82.5%, 82.5%, 76.8%, and 82.5%. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that abnormal functional connectome may be closely linked to clinical characteristics in CCSD. Functional connectome-based biomarkers can be a powerful tool for personalized diagnosis of CCSD in the future.
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29
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Subramaniam P, Yurgelun-Todd D. Neural and behavioral correlates associated with adolescent marijuana use. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2020; 7:475-485. [PMID: 33777643 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-020-00335-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Marijuana (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 Findings Current 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. Summary The 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punitha Subramaniam
- Interdepartmental Program in Neuroscience, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Diagnostic Neuroimaging Lab, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Deborah Yurgelun-Todd
- Interdepartmental Program in Neuroscience, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Diagnostic Neuroimaging Lab, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT.,VISN 19 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Salt Lake City VA Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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30
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Oh H, Lee J, Gosnell SN, Patriquin M, Kosten T, Salas R. Orbitofrontal, dorsal striatum, and habenula functional connectivity in psychiatric patients with substance use problems. Addict Behav 2020; 108:106457. [PMID: 32371303 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Substance abuse is commonly defined as the persistence of drug use despite negative consequences. Recent preclinical work has shown that higher input from the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) to the dorsal striatum was associated with compulsive reward-seeking behavior despite negative effects. It remains unknown whether drug use is associated with the connectivity between the OFC and dorsal striatum in humans. We studied the resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) between the OFC, dorsal striatum, and habenula (and the whole brain in a separate analysis) in psychiatric inpatients with high (PU, problem users) and low (LU, low users) substance use. We matched PU and LU for psychiatric comorbidities. We found that PU showed higher RSFC between the left OFC and the left dorsal striatum than LU. RSFC between the habenula and both OFC and dorsal striatum was also higher in PU, which suggests the habenula may be a part of the same circuit. Finally, higher RSFC between the OFC and insula was also observed in PU. Our data shows that OFC, habenula, dorsal striatum, and insula may play an important role in PU. Furthermore, we postulate that the habenula may link the mesolimbic and cortico-striatal systems, which are altered in PU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyuntaek Oh
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; The Menninger Clinic, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jaehoon Lee
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership, College of Education, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Savannah N Gosnell
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michelle Patriquin
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; The Menninger Clinic, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Thomas Kosten
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ramiro Salas
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; The Menninger Clinic, Houston, TX, USA; Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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31
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Marijuana use and major depressive disorder are additively associated with reduced verbal learning and altered cortical thickness. COGNITIVE AFFECTIVE & BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2020; 19:1047-1058. [PMID: 30809764 DOI: 10.3758/s13415-019-00704-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Marijuana (MJ) use and major depressive disorder (MDD) have both been associated with deficits in verbal learning and memory as well as structural brain abnormalities. It is not known if MJ use by those with MDD confers additional impairment. The goal of this study was to examine unique and combined effects of MDD and MJ use on verbal memory and brain structure. Young adults (n=141) aged 18-25 years with MJ use and no lifetime MDD (MJ, n=46), MDD and no MJ use (MDD, n=23), MJ use and lifetime MDD (MDD+MJ, n=24), and healthy controls without MDD or MJ use (CON, n=48) were enrolled. Participants completed the California Verbal Learning Test, Second Edition (CVLT-II), a measure of verbal learning and memory. A sub-sample of 82 participants also underwent a structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Group differences in CVLT-II performance, cortical thickness, and hippocampal volume were assessed. We found an additive effect of MDD and MJ on memory recall. Only MDD, but not MJ, was associated with poorer initial learning, fewer words recalled, more intrusion errors, and lower percent retention. There was also an additive effect of MDD and MJ use on reduced cortical thickness in the middle temporal gyrus. Findings indicate that MJ use and MDD have additive adverse associations with verbal recall and cortical thickness in the middle temporal gyrus, suggesting that MJ use among those with MDD may be contraindicated. Prospective studies are warranted to determine whether this association may be causal.
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Chye Y, Kirkham R, Lorenzetti V, McTavish E, Solowij N, Yücel M. Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Brain Morphology: A Review of the Evidence. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 6:627-635. [PMID: 32948510 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis and cannabinoid-based products are increasingly being accepted and commodified globally. Yet there is currently limited understanding of the effect of the varied cannabinoid compounds on the brain. Exogenous cannabinoids interact with the endogenous cannabinoid system that underpins vital functions in the brain and body, and they are thought to perturb key brain and cognitive function. However, much neuroimaging research has been confined to observational studies of cannabis users, without examining the specific role of the various cannabinoids (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, etc.). This review summarizes the brain structural imaging evidence to date associated with cannabis use, its major cannabinoids (e.g., Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol), and synthetic cannabinoid products that have emerged as recreational drugs. In doing so, we seek to highlight some of the key issues to consider in understanding cannabinoid-related brain effects, emphasizing the dual neurotoxic and neuroprotective role of cannabinoids, and the need to consider the distinct role of the varied cannabinoids in establishing their effect on the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Chye
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Kirkham
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Valentina Lorenzetti
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eugene McTavish
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nadia Solowij
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Anterior insula stimulation suppresses appetitive behavior while inducing forebrain activation in alcohol-preferring rats. Transl Psychiatry 2020; 10:150. [PMID: 32424183 PMCID: PMC7235223 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-020-0833-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The anterior insular cortex plays a key role in the representation of interoceptive effects of drug and natural rewards and their integration with attention, executive function, and emotions, making it a potential target region for intervention to control appetitive behaviors. Here, we investigated the effects of chemogenetic stimulation or inhibition of the anterior insula on alcohol and sucrose consumption. Excitatory or inhibitory designer receptors (DREADDs) were expressed in the anterior insula of alcohol-preferring rats by means of adenovirus-mediated gene transfer. Rats had access to either alcohol or sucrose solution during intermittent sessions. To characterize the brain network recruited by chemogenetic insula stimulation we measured brain-wide activation patterns using pharmacological magnetic resonance imaging (phMRI) and c-Fos immunohistochemistry. Anterior insula stimulation by the excitatory Gq-DREADDs significantly attenuated both alcohol and sucrose consumption, whereas the inhibitory Gi-DREADDs had no effects. In contrast, anterior insula stimulation failed to alter locomotor activity or deprivation-induced water drinking. phMRI and c-Fos immunohistochemistry revealed downstream activation of the posterior insula and medial prefrontal cortex, as well as of the mediodorsal thalamus and amygdala. Our results show the critical role of the anterior insula in regulating reward-directed behavior and delineate an insula-centered functional network associated with the effects of insula stimulation. From a translational perspective, our data demonstrate the therapeutic potential of circuit-based interventions and suggest that potentiation of insula excitability with neuromodulatory methods, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), could be useful in the treatment of alcohol use disorders.
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Cabeen RP, Allman JM, Toga AW. THC Exposure is Reflected in the Microstructure of the Cerebral Cortex and Amygdala of Young Adults. Cereb Cortex 2020; 30:4949-4963. [PMID: 32377689 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhaa087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system serves a critical role in homeostatic regulation through its influence on processes underlying appetite, pain, reward, and stress, and cannabis has long been used for the related modulatory effects it provides through tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). We investigated how THC exposure relates to tissue microstructure of the cerebral cortex and subcortical nuclei using computational modeling of diffusion magnetic resonance imaging data in a large cohort of young adults from the Human Connectome Project. We report strong associations between biospecimen-defined THC exposure and microstructure parameters in discrete gray matter brain areas, including frontoinsular cortex, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and the lateral amygdala subfields, with independent effects in behavioral measures of memory performance, negative intrusive thinking, and paternal substance abuse. These results shed new light on the relationship between THC exposure and microstructure variation in brain areas related to salience processing, emotion regulation, and decision making. The absence of effects in some other cannabinoid-receptor-rich brain areas prompts the consideration of cellular and molecular mechanisms that we discuss. Further studies are needed to characterize the nature of these effects across the lifespan and to investigate the mechanistic neurobiological factors connecting THC exposure and microstructural parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan P Cabeen
- Laboratory of Neuro Imaging, USC Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - John M Allman
- Division of Biology, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Arthur W Toga
- Laboratory of Neuro Imaging, USC Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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Bassiony MM, Fawzi M, Ammar HK, Khalil Y. The Negative Impact of Cannabis Use on School Grades and Intelligence Among Adolescents. ADDICTIVE DISORDERS & THEIR TREATMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1097/adt.0000000000000207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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36
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Abstract
Objective: Shifting policies and widespread acceptance of cannabis for medical and/or recreational purposes have fueled worries of increased cannabis initiation and use in adolescents. In particular, the adolescent period is thought to be associated with an increased susceptibility to the potential harms of repeated cannabis use, due to being a critical period for neuromaturational events in the brain. This review investigates the neuroimaging evidence of brain harms attributable to adolescent cannabis use. Methods: PubMed and Scopus searches were conducted for empirical articles that examined neuroimaging effects in both adolescent cannabis users and adult user studies that explored the effect of age at cannabis use onset on the brain. Results: We found 43 studies that examined brain effect (structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging) in adolescent cannabis users and 20 that examined the link between onset age of cannabis use and brain effects in adult users. Studies on adolescent cannabis users relative to nonusers mainly implicate frontal and parietal regions and associated brain activation in relation to inhibitory control, reward, and memory. However, studies in adults are more mixed, many of which did not observe an effect of onset age of cannabis use on brain imaging metrics. Conclusions: While there is some evidence of compromised frontoparietal structure and function in adolescent cannabis use, it remains unclear whether the observed effects are specifically attributable to adolescent onset of use or general cannabis use-related factors such as depressive symptoms. The relative contribution of adolescent onset of cannabis use and use chronicity will have to be more comprehensively examined in prospective, longitudinal studies with more rigorous measures of cannabis use (dosage, exposure, dependence, constituent compounds such as the relative cannabinoid levels).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Chye
- Brain Mind and Society Research Hub, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Erynn Christensen
- Brain Mind and Society Research Hub, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- Brain Mind and Society Research Hub, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Blest-Hopley G, Colizzi M, Giampietro V, Bhattacharyya S. Is the Adolescent Brain at Greater Vulnerability to the Effects of Cannabis? A Narrative Review of the Evidence. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:859. [PMID: 33005157 PMCID: PMC7479242 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use during the critical neurodevelopmental period of adolescence, may lead to brain structural, functional, and histological alterations that may underpin some of the longer-term behavioral and psychological harms associated with it. The endocannabinoid system performs a key regulatory and homeostatic role, that undergoes developmental changes during adolescence making it potentially more susceptible to the effects of exposure to cannabis during adolescence. Here, we synthesize evidence from human studies of adolescent cannabis users showing alterations in cognitive performance as well as in brain structure and function with relevant preclinical evidence to summarize the current state of knowledge. We also focus on the limited evidence that speaks to the hypothesis that cannabis use during adolescence, may pose a greater risk than use during adulthood, identify gaps in current evidence and suggest directions for new research. Existing literature is consistent with the association of cannabis use during adolescence and neurological changes. Adolescence cannabis users show altered functional connectivity within known functional circuits, that may underlie inefficient recruitment of brain regions, as largely increased functional activation has been observed compared to controls. This disruption in some cases may contribute to the development of adverse mental health conditions; increasing the chances or accelerating the onset, of their development. Preclinical evidence, further supports disruption from cannabis use being specific to the developmental period. Future studies are required to better investigate adolescent cannabis use with more accuracy using better defined groups or longitudinal studies and examine the permanency of these changes following caseation of use. Furthermore, research is required to identify heritable risk factors to cannabis use. There is a need for caution when considering the therapeutic potential of cannabis for adolescence and particularly in public discourse leading to potential trivialization of possible harm from cannabis use in adolescence. Current evidence indicates that adolescence is a sensitive period during which cannabis use may result in adverse neurocognitive effects that appear to show a level of permanency into adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Blest-Hopley
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Colizzi
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom.,Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Vincent Giampietro
- Department of Neuroimaging, Centre for Neuroimaging Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Sariah A, Pu W, Xue Z, Liu Z, Huang X. Reduced Cortical Thickness in the Right Caudal Middle Frontal Is Associated With Symptom Severity in Betel Quid-Dependent Chewers. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:654. [PMID: 32754064 PMCID: PMC7366340 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Findings from brain structural imaging studies on betel quid dependence have supported relations between betel quid chewing and alterations in gray matter volume and white matter integrity. However, the effect of betel quid chewing on cortical thickness and the link between cortical thickness and symptom severity remains unascertained. METHODS In this observational study, we compared cortical thickness measures from 24 male betel quid-dependent chewers with 27 male healthy controls. Using FreeSufer, we obtained three-dimensional T1-weighted images that were used to compute the thickness of the cerebral cortex throughout the cortical layer. RESULTS Compared to healthy controls, betel quid dependent chewers displayed significant decreased cortical thickness in the precuneus, entorhinal, right paracentral, middle temporal, and caudal middle frontal gyri. Betel quid dependence scale scores negatively correlated (r = -0.604; p = 0.002) with reduced cortical thickness in the right caudal middle frontal of betel quid-dependent chewers. CONCLUSION The findings provide evidence for cortical thickness abnormality in betel dependent chewers and further propose that the severity of betel quid symptoms may be a critical aspect associated with the cortical alterations. The observed alterations may serve as potential mechanisms to explain why BQ chewing behavior is persistent among individuals with betel quid dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adellah Sariah
- National Clinical Research Centre for Mental Disorders, Institute of Mental Health and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Weidan Pu
- Medical Psychological Institute, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhimin Xue
- National Clinical Research Centre for Mental Disorders, Institute of Mental Health and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhening Liu
- National Clinical Research Centre for Mental Disorders, Institute of Mental Health and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaojun Huang
- National Clinical Research Centre for Mental Disorders, Institute of Mental Health and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
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Chye Y, Suo C, Lorenzetti V, Batalla A, Cousijn J, Goudriaan AE, Martin-Santos R, Whittle S, Solowij N, Yücel M. Cortical surface morphology in long-term cannabis users: A multi-site MRI study. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2019; 29:257-265. [PMID: 30558823 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.11.1110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis exerts its psychoactive effect through cannabinoid receptors that are widely distributed across the cortical surface of the human brain. It is suggested that cannabis use may contribute to structural alterations across the cortical surface. In a large, multisite dataset of 120 controls and 141 cannabis users, we examined whether differences in key characteristics of the cortical surface - including cortical thickness, surface area, and gyrification index were related to cannabis use characteristics, including (i) cannabis use vs. non-use, (ii) cannabis dependence vs. non-dependence vs. non-use, and (iii) early adolescent vs. late adolescent onset of cannabis use vs. non-use. Our results revealed that cortical morphology was not associated with cannabis use, dependence, or onset age. The lack of effect of regular cannabis use, including problematic use, on cortical structure in our study is contrary to previous evidence of cortical morphological alterations (particularly in relation to cannabis dependence and cannabis onset age) in cannabis users. Careful reevaluation of the evidence on cannabis-related harm will be necessary to address concerns surrounding the long-term effects of cannabis use and inform policies in a changing cannabis regulation climate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Chye
- Brain and Mental Health Research Hub, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chao Suo
- Brain and Mental Health Research Hub, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Valentina Lorenzetti
- Brain and Mental Health Research Hub, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Australia; School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University
| | - Albert Batalla
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Janna Cousijn
- Department of Developmental Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna E Goudriaan
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Institute for Addiction Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Arkin Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rocio Martin-Santos
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sarah Whittle
- Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nadia Solowij
- School of Psychology and Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia; The Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence (ACRE), New Lambton Heights, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- Brain and Mental Health Research Hub, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
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40
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Shollenbarger S, Thomas AM, Wade NE, Gruber SA, Tapert SF, Filbey FM, Lisdahl KM. Intrinsic Frontolimbic Connectivity and Mood Symptoms in Young Adult Cannabis Users. Front Public Health 2019; 7:311. [PMID: 31737591 PMCID: PMC6838025 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The endocannbinoid system and cannabis exposure has been implicated in emotional processing. The current study examined whether regular cannabis users demonstrated abnormal intrinsic (a.k.a. resting state) frontolimbic connectivity compared to non-users. A secondary aim examined the relationship between cannabis group connectivity differences and self-reported mood and affect symptoms. Method: Participants included 79 cannabis-using and 80 non-using control emerging adults (ages of 18–30), balanced for gender, reading ability, and age. Standard multiple regressions were used to predict if cannabis group status was associated with frontolimbic connectivity after controlling for site, past month alcohol and nicotine use, and days of abstinence from cannabis. Results: After controlling for research site, past month alcohol and nicotine use, and days of abstinence from cannabis, cannabis users demonstrated significantly greater connectivity between left rACC and the following: right rACC (p = 0.001; corrected p = 0.05; f2 = 0.55), left amygdala (p = 0.03; corrected p = 0.47; f2 = 0.17), and left insula (p = 0.03; corrected p = 0.47; f2 = 0.16). Among cannabis users, greater bilateral rACC connectivity was significantly associated with greater subthreshold depressive symptoms (p = 0.02). Conclusions: Cannabis using young adults demonstrated greater connectivity within frontolimbic regions compared to controls. In cannabis users, greater bilateral rACC intrinsic connectivity was associated with greater levels of subthreshold depression symptoms. Current findings suggest that regular cannabis use during adolescence is associated with abnormal frontolimbic connectivity, especially in cognitive control and emotion regulation regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skyler Shollenbarger
- Psychology Department, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Alicia M Thomas
- Psychology Department, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Natasha E Wade
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Staci A Gruber
- Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Susan F Tapert
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Francesca M Filbey
- Bert Moore Chair in BrainHealth, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Krista M Lisdahl
- Psychology Department, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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41
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Unterrainer HF, Hiebler-Ragger M, Koschutnig K, Fuchshuber J, Ragger K, Perchtold CM, Papousek I, Weiss EM, Fink A. Brain Structure Alterations in Poly-Drug Use: Reduced Cortical Thickness and White Matter Impairments in Regions Associated With Affective, Cognitive, and Motor Functions. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:667. [PMID: 31616326 PMCID: PMC6763614 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are defined by obsessive and uncontrolled consumption, which is related to neurobiological changes. Based on previous work, this study investigated potential alterations in brain structure in poly-drug use disordered (PUD) patients in comparison to controls from the normal population. This study involved a sample of 153 right-handed men aged between 18 and 41 years, comprising a clinical group of 78 PUD and a group of 75 healthy controls. Group differences in gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM), as well as cortical thickness (CT), were investigated by means of diffusion tensor imaging using automated fiber quantification (AFQ) and voxel-based morphometry. We observed significant WM impairments in PUD, especially in the bilateral corticospinal tracts and the inferior longitudinal fasciculi. Furthermore, we found reduced CT in the PUD group especially in the left insular and left lateral orbitofrontal cortex. There were no group differences in GM. In addition, PUD exhibited a higher amount of psychiatric symptoms (Brief Symptom Inventory) and impairments in cognitive functions (Wonderlic Personnel Test). In line with previous research, this study revealed substantial impairments in brain structure in the PUD group in areas linked with affective, cognitive, and motor functions. We therefore hypothesize a neurologically informed treatment approach for SUD. Future studies should consequently explore a potential positive neuroplasticity in relation to a better therapeutic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Human F. Unterrainer
- Center for Integrative Addiction Research (CIAR), Grüner Kreis Society, Vienna, Austria
- University Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
- Institute for Religious Studies, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michaela Hiebler-Ragger
- Center for Integrative Addiction Research (CIAR), Grüner Kreis Society, Vienna, Austria
- University Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Jürgen Fuchshuber
- Center for Integrative Addiction Research (CIAR), Grüner Kreis Society, Vienna, Austria
- University Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Klemens Ragger
- Center for Integrative Addiction Research (CIAR), Grüner Kreis Society, Vienna, Austria
- University Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Ilona Papousek
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Andreas Fink
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Çolak Ç, Çelik ZÇ, Zorlu N, Kitiı Ö, Yüncü Z. Cortical Thickness and Subcortical Volumes in Adolescent Synthetic Cannabinoid Users with or Without ADHD: a Preliminary Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 56:167-172. [PMID: 31523140 DOI: 10.29399/npa.23495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) have become increasingly popular in the last few years, especially among adolescents. Given Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is over represented in patients with substance use across adolescents compared to the general population, the current study aims were two-fold: i) examine cortical thickness, surface area and subcortical volumes in SC users compared to controls, ii) examine the influence of ADHD on cortical thickness, surface area and subcortical volumes in SC users. Methods Structural magnetic resonance imaging scans were acquired from 28 SC users (15 without ADHD and 13 with ADHD combined type) and 13 controls. Results We found that SC users both with and without ADHD groups have significantly reduced cortical thickness compared to controls in areas of the left caudal middle frontal and left superior frontal. In addition, SC users with ADHD also showed reduced cortical thickness in the right precentral and postcentral gyruses. We also found increased right nucleus accumbens volume in SC users without ADHD, but not with ADHD, compared to controls. Conclusion These results suggest that similar to cannabis use, SC use has also negative effects on brain morphology and comorbidity of ADHD and substance dependence may show different cortical thickness and subcortical volume alterations than substance use alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Çiğdem Çolak
- Department of Psychiatry, Çiğli Regional Education Hospital, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Zehra Çakmak Çelik
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cizre State Hospital, Şırnak, Turkey
| | - Nabi Zorlu
- Department of Psychiatry, Atatürk Education and Research Hospital, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Ömer Kitiı
- Department of Radiology, Ege University School of Medicine, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Zeki Yüncü
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ege University School of Medicine, İzmir, Turkey
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Wade NE, Bagot KS, Cota CI, Fotros A, Squeglia LM, Meredith LR, Jacobus J. Orbitofrontal cortex volume prospectively predicts cannabis and other substance use onset in adolescents. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:1124-1131. [PMID: 31215833 PMCID: PMC6864237 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119855971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying neural characteristics that predict cannabis initiation is important for prevention efforts. The orbitofrontal cortex is critical for reward response and may be vulnerable to substance-induced alterations. AIMS We measured orbitofrontal cortex thickness, surface area, and volume prior to the onset of use to predict cannabis involvement during an average nine-year follow-up. METHODS Adolescents (n=118) aged 12-15 years completed baseline behavioral assessment and magnetic resonance imaging scans, then were followed up to 13 years with annual substance use interviews. Logistic regression examined baseline (pre-substance use) bilateral medial and lateral orbitofrontal cortex characteristics (volume, surface area, or cortex thickness) as predictors of regular cannabis use by follow-up. Post-hoc multinomial logistic regression assessed whether orbitofrontal cortex characteristics significantly predicted either alcohol use alone or cannabis+alcohol co-use. Brain-behavior relationships were assessed through follow-up correlations of baseline relationships between orbitofrontal cortex and executive functioning, reward responsiveness, and behavioral approach traits. RESULTS Larger left lateral orbitofrontal cortex volume predicted classification as cannabis user by follow-up (p=0.025, odds ratio=1.808). Lateral orbitofrontal cortex volume also predicted cannabis+alcohol co-user status (p=0.008, odds ratio=2.588), but not alcohol only status. Larger lateral orbitofrontal cortex volume positively correlated with greater baseline reward responsiveness (p=0.030, r=0.348). There were no significant results by surface area or cortex thickness (ps>0.05). CONCLUSIONS Larger left lateral orbitofrontal cortex measured from ages 12-15 years and prior to initiation of substance use was related to greater reward responsiveness at baseline and predicted classification as a cannabis user and cannabis+alcohol co-user by final follow-up. Larger lateral orbitofrontal cortex volume may represent aberrant orbitofrontal cortex maturation and increasing vulnerability for later substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha E. Wade
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
| | - Kara S. Bagot
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
| | - Claudia I. Cota
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
| | - Aryandokht Fotros
- Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lindsay M. Squeglia
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addiction Sciences Division, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Lindsay R. Meredith
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addiction Sciences Division, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Joanna Jacobus
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego,Correspondence and reprint requests to: Joanna Jacobus, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0405, La Jolla, CA 92093, Office: 858.534.3479,
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Associations between adolescent cannabis use frequency and adult brain structure: A prospective study of boys followed to adulthood. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 202:191-199. [PMID: 31357120 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have tested the hypothesis that adolescent cannabis users show structural brain alterations in adulthood. The present study tested associations between prospectively-assessed trajectories of adolescent cannabis use and adult brain structure in a sample of boys followed to adulthood. METHODS Data came from the Pittsburgh Youth Study - a longitudinal study of ˜1000 boys. Boys completed self-reports of cannabis use annually from age 13-19, and latent class growth analysis was used to identify different trajectories of adolescent cannabis use. Once adolescent cannabis trajectories were identified, boys were classified into their most likely cannabis trajectory. A subset of boys (n = 181) subsequently underwent structural neuroimaging in adulthood, when they were between 30-36 years old on average. For this subset, we grouped participants according to their classified adolescent cannabis trajectory and tested whether these groups showed differences in adult brain structure in 14 a priori regions of interest, including six subcortical (volume only: amygdala, hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, caudate, putamen, and pallidum) and eight cortical regions (volume and thickness: superior frontal gyrus; caudal and rostral middle frontal gyrus; inferior frontal gyrus, separated into pars opercularis, pars triangularis, and pars orbitalis; lateral and medial orbitofrontal gyrus). RESULTS We identified four adolescent cannabis trajectories: non-users/infrequent users, desisters, escalators, and chronic-relatively frequent users. Boys in different trajectory subgroups did not differ on adult brain structure in any subcortical or cortical region of interest. CONCLUSIONS Adolescent cannabis use is not associated with structural brain differences in adulthood.
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Morris VL, Owens MM, Syan SK, Petker TD, Sweet LH, Oshri A, MacKillop J, Amlung M. Associations Between Drinking and Cortical Thickness in Younger Adult Drinkers: Findings From the Human Connectome Project. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2019; 43:1918-1927. [PMID: 31365137 PMCID: PMC6721970 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous neuroimaging studies examining relations between alcohol misuse and cortical thickness have revealed that increased drinking quantity and alcohol-related problems are associated with thinner cortex. Although conflicting regional effects are often observed, associations are generally localized to frontal regions (e.g., dorsolateral prefrontal cortex [DLPFC], inferior frontal gyrus [IFG], and anterior cingulate cortex). Inconsistent findings may be attributed to methodological differences, modest sample sizes, and limited consideration of sex differences. METHODS This study examined neuroanatomical correlates of drinking quantity and heavy episodic drinking in a large sample of younger adults (N = 706; Mage = 28.8; 51% female) using magnetic resonance imaging data from the Human Connectome Project. Exploratory analyses examined neuroanatomical correlates of executive function (flanker task) and working memory (list sorting). RESULTS Hierarchical linear regression models (controlling for age, sex, education, income, smoking, drug use, twin status, and intracranial volume) revealed significant inverse associations between drinks in past week and frequency of heavy drinking and cortical thickness in a majority of regions examined. The largest effect sizes were found for frontal regions (DLPFC, IFG, and the precentral gyrus). Follow-up regression models revealed that the left DLPFC was uniquely associated with both drinking variables. Sex differences were also observed, with significant effects largely specific to men. CONCLUSIONS This study adds to the understanding of brain correlates of alcohol use in a large, gender-balanced sample of younger adults. Although the cross-sectional methodology precludes causal inferences, these findings provide a foundation for rigorous hypothesis testing in future longitudinal investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa L Morris
- Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Max M Owens
- Department of Psychology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Sabrina K Syan
- Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Lawrence H Sweet
- Department of Psychology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Assaf Oshri
- College of Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - James MacKillop
- Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Homewood Research Institute, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Amlung
- Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Lin F, Wu G, Zhu L, Lei H. Region-Specific Changes of Insular Cortical Thickness in Heavy Smokers. Front Hum Neurosci 2019; 13:265. [PMID: 31417384 PMCID: PMC6685069 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2019.00265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Insula plays an essential role in maintaining the addiction to cigarette smoking and smoking-related alterations on the insular volume and density have been reported in smokers. However, less is known about the effects of chronic cigarette smoking on the insular cortical thickness. In this study, we explored the region-specific changes of insular cortical thickness in heavy smokers and their relations with smoking-related variables. 37 heavy smokers (29 males, mean age 47.19 ± 7.22 years) and 37 non-smoking healthy controls (29 males, mean age 46.95 ± 8.45 years) participated in the study. Subregional insular cortical thickness was evaluated and compared between the two groups. Correlation analysis was performed to investigate relationships between the insular cortical thickness and clinical characteristics in heavy smokers. There was no statistical difference on the cortical thickness in the left insula (p = 0.536) between the two groups while heavy smokers had a slightly thinner cortical thickness in the right insula (p = 0.048). In addition, heavy smokers showed a greater cortical thinning in the anterior (p = 0.0084) and superior (p = 0.0054) segment of the circular sulcus of the right insula as well as the inferior (p = 0.012) segment of the circular sulcus of the left insula. Moreover, the cortical thickness of the superior segment of the circular sulcus of the left insula was correlated negatively with nicotine severity (r = −0.423; p = 0.009) and the longer cigarette exposure was associated with the cortical thinning in the long insular gyrus and central sulcus of the right insula (r = −0.475; p = 0.003). Our findings indicate that chronic cigarette use is associated with region-specific insular thinning, which has the potential to improve our understanding of the specific roles of insular subregions in nicotine addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuchun Lin
- National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guangyao Wu
- Department of Radiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Department of Medical Imaging, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Medical College of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ling Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hao Lei
- National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Cannabis use in youth is associated with limited alterations in brain structure. Neuropsychopharmacology 2019; 44:1362-1369. [PMID: 30780151 PMCID: PMC6784999 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-019-0347-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Frequent cannabis use during adolescence has been associated with alterations in brain structure. However, studies have featured relatively inconsistent results, predominantly from small samples, and few studies have examined less frequent users to shed light on potential brain structure differences across levels of cannabis use. In this study, high-resolution T1-weighted MRIs were obtained from 781 youth aged 14-22 years who were studied as part of the Philadelphia Neurodevelopmental Cohort. This sample included 147 cannabis users (109 occasional [≤1-2 times per week] and 38 frequent [≥3 times per week] users) and 634 cannabis non-users. Several structural neuroimaging measures were examined in whole brain analyses, including gray and white matter volumes, cortical thickness, and gray matter density. Established procedures for stringent quality control were conducted, and two automated neuroimaging software processing packages were used to ensure robustness of results. There were no significant differences by cannabis group in global or regional brain volumes, cortical thickness, or gray matter density, and no significant group by age interactions were found. Follow-up analyses indicated that values of structural neuroimaging measures by cannabis group were similar across regions, and any differences among groups were likely of a small magnitude. In sum, structural brain metrics were largely similar among adolescent and young adult cannabis users and non-users. Our data converge with prior large-scale studies suggesting small or limited associations between cannabis use and structural brain measures in youth. Detailed studies of vulnerability to structural brain alterations and longitudinal studies examining long-term risk are clearly indicated.
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Maple KE, Thomas AM, Kangiser MM, Lisdahl KM. Anterior cingulate volume reductions in abstinent adolescent and young adult cannabis users: Association with affective processing deficits. Psychiatry Res Neuroimaging 2019; 288:51-59. [PMID: 31079000 PMCID: PMC6548454 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2019.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristin E Maple
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2441 E. Hartford Ave., Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Alicia M Thomas
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2441 E. Hartford Ave., Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Megan M Kangiser
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2441 E. Hartford Ave., Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Krista M Lisdahl
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2441 E. Hartford Ave., Milwaukee, WI, United States.
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Cortical morphology of chronic users of codeine-containing cough syrups: association with sulcal depth, gyrification, and cortical thickness. Eur Radiol 2019; 29:5901-5909. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-019-06165-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Sabioni P, Le Foll B. Psychosocial and Pharmacological Interventions for the Treatment of Cannabis Use Disorder. FOCUS: JOURNAL OF LIFE LONG LEARNING IN PSYCHIATRY 2019; 17:163-168. [PMID: 32021586 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.17202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
(Reprinted with permission from Sabioni P and Le Foll B. Psychosocial and pharmacological interventions for the treatment of cannabis use disorder [version 1; referees: 3 approved]. F1000Research 2018, 7(F1000 Faculty Rev):173 (https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.11191.1)).
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