Background 

Cannabis use in youth has been linked to developing psychosis, differences in brain development, as well as a range of behavioural, cognitive and emotional difficulties. Little is known about the mechanism of how cannabis may harm the developing brain.

Research  

We investigated associations between frequent cannabis use and markers of inflammation. Young people who reported daily or near daily cannabis use had higher levels of a protein called suPAR which has been associated with inflammation and aging.

Potential Impact 

This work provides a potential explanatory mechanism for how cannabis use effects brain development. It may also inform future clinical trials around the novel use of anti-inflammatory medications for treatment of psychosis.