Cannabinoids developmental exposure

DEVELOPMENTAL EXPOSURE TO CANNABINOIDS CAUSES SUBTLE AND ENDURING NEUROFUNCTIONAL ALTERATIONS... 

ILL Morphological and Neurofunctional Outcomes Induced by Developmental Exposure to Cannabinoids... 

Many studies carried out in laboratory animals have demonstrated that developmental exposure to high doses of cannabinoids may induce morphological and functional abnormalities in the offspring (Dalterio, 1986 Trezza et al., 2008b). However, the neurofunctional consequences of developmental exposure to low/ moderate doses of cannabinoids have not completely clarified yet. 

In this scenario, animal models may provide a useful tool for examining the potential long-term effects of in utero exposure to cannabinoids (Fried, 2002). Indeed, due to the limited life span of rodents, it is possible to undertake longterm studies, analyzing the effects of a prenatal exposure since early developmental stages till adulthood in a limited period of time (i.e., 6—12 months). 

Taken together, these results suggest that, independendy of the timing of exposure or of the cannabinoid compounds used, cannabinoid exposure during critical developmental periods induces subde and specific enduring cognitive alterations in the offspring. 

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