Why might introducing THC during adolescence potentially cause lasting changes in brain structure?
The ECS plays a role in the development of brain circuits.
The developmental stage of the adolescent brain makes it particularly vulnerable to external chemical interference. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is fundamentally involved in guiding and regulating the complex processes required for the proper development and maturation of brain circuits during adolescence. When external cannabinoids like THC are introduced during this critical period of circuit formation, they can interfere with these necessary developmental signaling pathways. This interference may lead to observable, long-lasting alterations in both the physical structure and the functional organization of the brain that can persist into adulthood, especially with heavy and persistent usage.
