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Orbitofrontal and caudate volumes in cannabis users: a multi-site mega-analysis comparing dependent versus
Yann Chye1, Nadia Solowij2, Chao Suo1
1Brain and Mental Health Laboratory, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
Psychopharmacology
|April 2, 2017
Summary
Cannabis dependence is linked to smaller orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) volumes, especially in females. These brain changes may relate to dependence mechanisms and ongoing cannabinoid exposure.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Neuroscience
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Cannabis (CB) use and dependence are linked to brain alterations and psychosocial issues.
- Understanding these brain changes is crucial for addiction research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between cannabis use/dependence and brain volumes.
- Specifically examining the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and caudate regions.
Main Methods:
- A multi-site structural imaging study comparing 140 CB users and 121 healthy controls (HC).
- Investigated group differences between HC, CB users, dependent (CB-dep), and non-dependent (CB-nondep) users.
- Explored relationships between CB use quantity/onset age and OFC/caudate volumes.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in OFC or caudate volume between overall CB users and HC.
- CB-dependent users showed significantly smaller medial and lateral OFC volumes compared to non-dependent users.
- Smaller lateral OFC volume was noted in dependent females, associated with higher monthly cannabis dosage.
Conclusions:
- Cannabis dependence, not just use, is associated with reduced OFC volumes.
- Medial OFC reductions may stem from dependence mechanisms; lateral OFC reductions from cannabinoid exposure.
- Highlights the need to consider gender-specific effects in cannabis dependence research.