Neurodevelopmental effects of exogenous cannabinoids on endocannabinoid and GABAergic neurotransmission

Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug among pregnant women, and its use has been linked to higher risks of hyperactivity, attention issues, anxiety, depression, and reduced cognitive abilities in children. Cannabinoids cross the placenta and affect the fetal endocannabinoid (eCB) system, which is crucial for neurodevelopment and interacts with other key neurotransmitter systems, such as GABA, that regulate the proliferation, migration, differentiation, and plasticity of developing neurons. This review discusses the effects of exogenous cannabinoids on the eCB and GABAergic systems during neurodevelopment, including recent findings that exposure to exogenous cannabinoids can delay the developmental transition of GABA from a depolarizing to a hyperpolarizing state. This paper also examines the consequences of delayed GABA switching during early postnatal development and considers its potential long-term effects on brain function. These findings expand our understanding of maternal cannabis use and highlight the need for further research to clarify mechanisms, identify potential treatment targets, and evaluate public health impacts as cannabis use during pregnancy rises.