A Commentary for the “Reelin Deficiency and Synaptic Impairment in Adolescent PFC following Initial Synthetic Cannabinoid Exposure”.
A fine approach to the article, praised by its reviewer, in Biological Psychiatry
Commentary below
Even a single use of drugs like cannabis or synthetic cannabinoids can have a lasting impact on the brain. This is especially true for adolescents, whose brains are still developing.
The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and social behavior, is particularly vulnerable during this period. Exposure to synthetic cannabinoids can disrupt its normal development, leading to long-term cognitive and behavioral problems.
A key protein involved in brain development and function, Reelin, is affected by synthetic cannabinoid use. When Reelin levels are reduced, it can lead to problems with synaptic communication, balance between excitatory and inhibitory signals, and brain plasticity. These disruptions can contribute to the behavioral issues seen in people who use synthetic cannabinoids.
To understand the impact of synthetic cannabinoids on the brain, researchers studied adolescent mice. They found that a single dose of a synthetic cannabinoid can significantly decrease Reelin levels in specific parts of the prefrontal cortex. This reduction wasn’t due to decreased production but rather increased breakdown of the protein.
Interestingly, cannabinoid receptors and Reelin are often found together in the same brain cells. The researchers confirmed that the reduction in Reelin caused by synthetic cannabinoids is mediated by these cannabinoid receptors.
The decrease in Reelin led to a reduction in long-term potentiation, a process crucial for learning and memory. This effect was similar to what is observed in mice with reduced Reelin levels. However, when Reelin was directly infused into the prefrontal cortex, long-term potentiation was restored, demonstrating a direct link between Reelin depletion and synaptic dysfunction.
In conclusion, this study highlights the significant impact of a single synthetic cannabinoid exposure on brain development, particularly the prefrontal cortex, and identifies Reelin as a key molecular target involved in these detrimental effects.