Dopamine
A catecholamine neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, motor control, and cognition. THC increases dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens, contributing to its rewarding effects.
In Depth
THC activates CB1 receptors on GABAergic interneurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), disinhibiting dopamine neurons and increasing dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens (the brain's reward center). This dopamine surge underlies cannabis's rewarding and potentially addictive properties. Chronic THC use blunts dopamine signaling, which may contribute to amotivational syndrome and anhedonia in heavy users. CBD does not directly increase dopamine release and may modulate dopamine signaling through indirect mechanisms.
Related Terms
Further Reading
More in Neuroscience
Retrograde Signaling
A form of synaptic communication where the postsynaptic neuron sends chemical signals back to the presynaptic neuron to modulate neurotransmitter release.
Neurogenesis
The process by which new neurons are formed in the brain. In adults, primarily occurs in the hippocampus (dentate gyrus) and olfactory bulb.
Neuroprotection
The preservation of neuronal structure and function against injury, degeneration, or disease.
Neuroinflammation
Inflammation of nervous tissue, involving activation of microglia and astrocytes and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines within the CNS.
Hippocampus
A brain region critical for memory formation, spatial navigation, and stress regulation. Highly enriched in CB1 receptors and particularly sensitive to cannabinoid effects.