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Cannabinoid disruption of learning mechanisms involved in reward processing.

Authors :
Lupica CR
Hoffman AF
Source :
Learning & memory (Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.) [Learn Mem] 2018 Aug 16; Vol. 25 (9), pp. 435-445. Date of Electronic Publication: 2018 Aug 16 (Print Publication: 2018).
Publication Year :
2018

Abstract

The increasing use of cannabis, its derivatives, and synthetic cannabinoids for medicinal and recreational purposes has led to burgeoning interest in understanding the addictive potential of this class of molecules. It is estimated that ∼10% of marijuana users will eventually show signs of dependence on the drug, and the diagnosis of cannabis use disorder (CUD) is increasing in the United States. The molecule that sustains the use of cannabis is Δ <superscript>9</superscript> -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ <superscript>9</superscript> -THC), and our knowledge of its effects, and those of other cannabinoids on brain function has expanded rapidly in the past two decades. Additionally, the identification of endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoid) systems in brain and their roles in physiology and behavior, demonstrate extensive involvement of these lipid signaling molecules in regulating CNS function. Here, we examine roles for endogenous cannabinoids in shaping synaptic activity in cortical and subcortical brain circuits, and we discuss mechanisms in which exogenous cannabinoids, such as Δ <superscript>9</superscript> -THC, interact with endocannabinoid systems to disrupt neuronal network oscillations. We then explore how perturbation of the interaction of this activity within brain reward circuits may lead to impaired learning. Finally, we propose that disruption of cellular plasticity mechanisms by exogenous cannabinoids in cortical and subcortical circuits may explain the difficulty in establishing viable cannabinoid self-administration models in animals.<br /> (Published by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1549-5485
Volume :
25
Issue :
9
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Learning & memory (Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.)
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
30115765
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1101/lm.046748.117