Maternal immune activation and adolescent exposure to cannabis in rodents: Do two developmental “hits” lead to schizophrenia-like changes in brain and behaviour? [ 2016 - 2018 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Deborah Hodgson (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr Juanita Todd ,  E/Pr Patricia Michie ,  Prof Cynthia Shannon Weickert ,  Prof Ulrich Schall

Brief description The cause of schizophrenia most likely lies in early brain development due to either genetics or adverse environments. We will examine two successive environmental ‘hits’ in a rat model: infection during pregnancy followed by early adolescent cannabis use. We will track changes in the brain that occur in late adolescence and in young adults. We will also assess behaviour and brain function in adulthood to see if the animals exhibit patterns that mimic those that we see in schizophrenia.

Funding Amount $AUD 654,403.42

Funding Scheme Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant