Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026
07:51
Administration of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in Adolescent and Adult Mice
Published on: August 1, 2025
Navigating dose-effect complexities and challenges in cannabinoid therapy for aging-related neurobiological changes
Ivona-Maria Tudorancea1, Leontina-Elena Filipiuc1, Diana-Sabina Vieru2
1Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine "Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu" CEMEX, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, Iasi, Romania.
Frontiers in Pharmacology
|June 15, 2026
Summary
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) shows dual effects in the aging brain, with low doses potentially neuroprotective and high doses neurodisruptive. Cannabidiol (CBD) appears neuroprotective, but age-specific strategies are needed for both cannabinoids.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Brain aging involves complex molecular and cellular changes.
- The endocannabinoid system regulates brain homeostasis during aging.
- The neurological impact of cannabinoids in aging brains is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review preclinical and clinical evidence on age-dependent effects of THC and CBD.
- To analyze dose, administration route, and pharmacokinetics in aging.
- To clarify the polarized interpretations of cannabinoid effects in aging brains.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review synthesizing existing research.
- Critical analysis of studies on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
- Emphasis on dose-dependent and age-related effects.
Main Results:
- THC has a dual dose-dependent effect: low doses may be neuroprotective, while high doses can cause neuroinflammation and impairment.
- CBD shows promising anti-neuroinflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects in aging models.
- Aging influences cannabinoid pharmacokinetics, impacting their effects.
Conclusions:
- THC therapies may have dual effects in the aging brain, necessitating age-adapted dosing.
- CBD appears generally neuroprotective in aging, though developmental effects require more study.
- Integrated experimental approaches are crucial for defining cannabinoid therapeutic potential in age-associated neurological disorders.
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