Depression, marijuana use and early-onset marijuana use conferred unique effects on neural connectivity and cognition

Marijuana (MJ) use is common. Research shows risks for psychiatric illnesses, including major depressive disorder (MDD) and cognitive deficits with MJ use, particularly early-onset use. We investigated cognitive function, functional connectivity, and genetic risk with MDD alone and combined with MJ use, and differences between early-vs. late-onset/non-MJ use in youth.

A total of 74 youth in four groups were studied: healthy control, MDD, frequent MJ use and current/past MDD plus frequent MJ use. Psychiatric symptoms, cognitive performance and demographics were measured. Default mode network (DMN) brain connectivity was determined. Risk alleles in six genes of interest were evaluated.

DMN differences among groups in reward-processing and motor control regions were found; the effects of MJ use and MDD were distinct. Early-onset MJ use was associated with lower IQ and hyperconnectivity within areas of the DMN. Early-onset MJ use was associated with the BDNF risk allele.

Cognitive deficits linked with early-onset MJ use were present within several years after MJ use began and may result from, predispose to, or share a common cause with early-onset MJ use. The DMN was affected by MDD, MJ and their combination, as well as by early-onset MJ use. BDNF carrier state may predispose to early-onset MJ use.