Imaging and Studying Brain Cannabinoid Receptors Using PET Scans in Men Aged 18 to 55 with Various Psychiatric Conditions

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the availability and distribution of cannabinoid receptors CB1R in the human brain across various groups including healthy individuals, those with cannabis use disorders, psychotic disorders, prodromal psychotic illness, family history of alcoholism, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD, and Opioid Use Disorder OUD. The study uses Positron Emission Tomography PET imaging with the radioligand 11-COMAR to visualize these receptors and aims to expand understanding based on pilot data and evolving knowledge of cannabinoid receptor function in psychiatric conditions. Participants undergo PET scans using the radiotracer 11-COMAR, administered at doses not exceeding 10 micrograms at the start of each scan. Those with cannabis use disorder will have multiple scans once while using cannabis normally, once after 48 hours of abstinence, and once after four weeks of abstinence. Some patients with schizophrenia or prodromal symptoms may also have repeated scans to assess medication effects and illness progression. The study includes groups such as schizophrenia patients on and off medication, cannabis users, individuals with a family history of alcoholism, prodromal patients, healthy volunteers, and those with PTSD or OUD. Participants will have a PET scan typically within four weeks of screening, with additional scans depending on their group and condition. Researchers will collect imaging data to measure CB1 receptor presence and distribution. This observational study includes assessments through PET imaging and monitors participants for safety and exposure to radiation. The total participation timeframe and monitoring depend on individual group protocols, with some having repeated scans over weeks to months.

Imaging Cannabinoid Receptors Using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scanning