Cannabis is one of the most commonly used recreational substances in Canada, yet its effects on brain blood flow remain poorly understood. While cannabis containing the psychoactive compound Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is widely consumed, research suggests that THC may significantly alter the regulation of brain blood flow. Proper blood flow to the brain is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to support normal brain function, and disturbances in this regulation could have long-term consequences for cerebrovascular health. This study aims to investigate how acute inhalation of THCcontaining cannabis affects brain blood flow regulation in healthy adults. Specifically, the research will focus on four key questions: How does THC-containing cannabis impact regional brain blood flow? Does THC affect the interaction between the brain’s blood flow and the nervous system? How does THC influence the brain’s ability to match blood flow to metabolic needs? Does THC impair the body’s ability to maintain blood pressure and blood flow to the brain during body positional stress? These questions are particularly important because previous research has shown that THC can significantly reduce nervous system activity, which may affect blood vessel function in the brain. Moreover, cannabis use has been linked to an increased risk of stroke and other brain diseases, raising concerns about its long-term effects. To answer these questions, 20 healthy adults (10 males, 10 females) will participate in a controlled clinical trial, where they will inhale either THC-containing cannabis or a placebo that mimics cannabis smoking. Advanced physiological techniques will measure their brain blood flow, nervous system activity, and cardiovascular responses to a series of experimental tests. The findings from this study will help provide a clearer understanding of how cannabis affects brain health, offering valuable insights for public health and guiding future research on cannabis-related health risks.
