Cannabis Use Research Study
Researchers at Hartford HealthCare are conducting a study to better understand how THC affects memory and reward learning across different age groups.
Fast Facts
Used cannabis within the past 2 years and felt “high” when used
Ages 18-35
or 60-75
Compensation
provided up to $20/hr
Conducted in
Hartford, CT
Study Background
Hartford HealthCare researchers are studying how THC affects memory and the brain.
Cannabis use, specifically THC, may affect memory and reward learning by altering brain circuits involved in motivation, learning, and positive reinforcement. These effects may differ across age groups as the brain changes over the lifespan. This study aims to better understand how THC influences memory and reward-related brain activity in younger and older adults using brain imaging techniques.
By examining these effects in more detail, researchers hope to gain insights into how cannabis impacts cognitive functioning across the lifespan. Eventually, the findings of this study may help inform safer cannabis use guidelines and improve understanding of how THC affects brain health and quality of life in aging individuals.
Study Background
Hartford HealthCare researchers are studying how THC affects memory and the brain.
Cannabis use, specifically THC, may affect memory and reward learning by altering brain circuits involved in motivation, learning, and positive reinforcement. These effects may differ across age groups as the brain changes over the lifespan. This study aims to better understand how THC influences memory and reward-related brain activity in younger and older adults using brain imaging techniques.
By examining these effects in more detail, researchers hope to gain insights into how cannabis impacts cognitive functioning across the lifespan. Eventually, the findings of this study may help inform safer cannabis use guidelines and improve understanding of how THC affects brain health and quality of life in aging individuals.
Additional Information
In this research study, we aim to understand how THC affects memory and reward learning across different stages of adulthood. We seek to better understand how THC influences the brain’s reward and learning systems in younger and older adults. Because reward learning and memory are supported by specific neural circuits, this study uses brain imaging, behavioral tasks, and biological measures to examine how these systems function under the influence of THC.
We also aim to determine how THC differentially impacts cognitive and reward-related processes by comparing responses to an active THC dose versus a placebo in a controlled setting. By using neuroscience-guided methods, including MRI-based tasks that target memory and reward circuits, this study seeks to provide a more detailed understanding of how THC affects brain function across the lifespan.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria
- Ages 18–35 or 60–75
- Have used inhaled cannabis within the past 2 years and felt “high” when using it
- Do not experience cravings for cannabis
- Able and willing to provide written informed consent
- Willing to comply with all study procedures
Exclusion Criteria
- Current cannabis tolerance or cravings
- History of serious neurological conditions (e.g., seizures, epilepsy, stroke, brain tumor)
- History of traumatic brain injury with loss of consciousness or requiring hospitalization
- MRI contraindications (e.g., non-removable metal in or on the body, severe claustrophobia)
- Any medical or safety condition that would make participation unsafe, as determined during screening
The entire study lasts approximately 1–2 months. Once enrolled, the study involves:
In the lab:
- 3 visits where you will complete assessments of memory, reward learning, and the effects of THC.
- Each visit includes behavioral tasks performed during an MRI scan to measure brain activity.
- During one visit, you will receive either an active dose of THC or a placebo, and the other dose at a
As a participant, you may receive $20 per hour for your time, and transportation assistance via Uber is available if needed.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.