22 Nov Cannabis Use Worsens Psychosis Risk in Some Young Adults

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Belén Blasco

Belén Blasco
PhD Student in Neuroscience – MD Psychiatry
Clinical and Translational Sciences (CaTS) Lab
Integrated Program in Neuroscience
McGill University | Douglas Research Centre
Montreal, Canada

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?

Response: Our research is centered on uncovering the early brain changes that might contribute to psychosis development. Using innovative brain imaging techniques, we aimed to measure synapsis in individuals with early psychotic symptoms or who are considered at high clinical risk. Synapses are the crucial points of connection between neurons, allowing communication across the brain. A key aspect of our study was to understand how lifestyle factors, like cannabis use, might impact these brain changes, particularly since cannabis consumption has been associated with an increased risk of developing psychosis in young people.

MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings?

Response:   We discovered that individuals at high clinical risk for psychosis show a reduction in synaptic density compared to healthy controls. Our results suggest that cannabis use may worsen these synaptic deficits, potentially disrupting brain connectivity even further. Notably, this lower synaptic density was linked to symptoms like social withdrawal and lack of motivation—issues that are notoriously hard to treat with existing medications.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response:  Our study underscores the importance of early detection. The changes in synaptic density occur early in the course of psychosis, even before the full spectrum of symptoms is present. This suggests that focusing on synaptic health could lead to new interventions that address the social and motivational difficulties. We hope this research inspires new strategies to enhance the social skills and daily functioning of patients. 

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a results of this study?

Response: Looking ahead, future research should focus on whether these brain changes can help predict the onset of psychosis, potentially allowing for early intervention before full fledged positive symptoms appear. Exploring how factors like cannabis use or stress impact synaptic density will also be key to prevention efforts. Additionally, developing new medications that target synaptic density could address critical gaps in current treatments.

MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add? Any disclosures?

Response: We are grateful to the staff at the Montreal Neurological Institute (Dr. Gassan Massarweh, Dr. Jean-Paul Soucy, Chris Hsiao) and extend our sincere gratitude to the exceptional team at the psychiatric emergency service of the Douglas Hospital in Montreal (Dr. Cohen). We also appreciate the support from CIHR for funding the study, as well as the funding bodies supporting the lead student (FRQS, Stratas and Dolansky Foundation).

Citation:

Blasco MB, Nisha Aji K, Ramos-Jiménez C, et al. Synaptic Density in Early Stages of Psychosis and Clinical High Risk. JAMA Psychiatry. Published online November 13, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.3608

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Last Updated on November 22, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD