A systematic review of 12 studies found THC increases key astrocyte markers (GFAP and nestin) in the brain, with effects varying by developmental stage and sex, suggesting THC affects brain support cell maturation.
Neuroscience researchers, those studying cannabis brain effects, and developmental neurobiology researchers.
THC increased GFAP and nestin expression in astrocytes, with age- and sex-dependent effects
What the researchers found
Both GFAP and nestin expression increased in adulthood following adolescent and adult THC exposure. GLAST expression increased during early development after THC exposure. Effects appeared to vary by developmental stage (adolescence vs adulthood) and sex, though patterns were not fully consistent across studies.
Why it matters
Astrocytes are essential brain support cells that maintain homeostasis, support synaptic function, and respond to injury. THC's impact on these cells, especially during development, could explain some of the cognitive and mental health effects associated with cannabis use.
The numbers in context
12 studies included; key markers: GFAP (increased), nestin (increased), GLAST (increased during early development); effects varied by age and sex
How the study worked
Systematic review of EMBASE, Medline, and PsychoInfo for studies reporting astrocytic markers following THC exposure in animals and humans. 12 eligible studies were included with bias assessment using SYRCLE guidelines.
What this study cannot tell us
Only 12 studies met criteria, reflecting a sparse literature. Most were animal studies. Heterogeneous methods and THC exposure protocols. Limited human data. Risk of bias present in included studies.
How to read the evidence
Systematic review but of only 12 studies, mostly animal, with heterogeneous methods and some risk of bias.
When this study was published
Published in 2024.
The bigger picture
While most cannabis research focuses on neurons, astrocytes are increasingly recognized as critical players in brain function and disease. Understanding how THC affects these cells adds a new dimension to our understanding of cannabis neurobiology.
Questions still open
- Could THC-induced astrocytic changes contribute to the cognitive effects of cannabis?
- Are astrocytic changes reversible after cannabis cessation?
Common questions
What are astrocytes and why do they matter for cannabis research?
Does THC affect brain cells differently at different ages?
Read the original research
A Systematic Review of Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC) in Astrocytic Markers.
Cells, 13(19)
Citation
Ramos-Jiménez, Christian; Petkau, Sarah; Mizrahi, Romina. (2024). A Systematic Review of Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC) in Astrocytic Markers.. Cells, 13(19). https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13191628
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