The Role of the Endocannabinoid System and Genetic Variation in Adolescent Brain Development.

ABSTRACT: During adolescence, both rodent and human studies have revealed dynamic changes in the developmental trajectories of corticolimbic structures, which are known to contribute to the regulation of fear and anxiety-related behaviors. The endocannabinoid (eCB) system critically regulates stress responsivity and anxiety throughout the life span. Emerging evidence suggests that during adolescence, changes in eCB signaling contribute to the maturation of local and corticolimbic circuit populations of neurons, such as mediating the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission within the prefrontal cortex. This function of the eCB system facilitates efficient communication within and between brain regions and serves a central role in establishing complex and adaptive cognitive and beh

SUBMITTER: Meyer HC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5719094 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature