title: Effects of Δ-THC on Working Memory: Implications for Schizophrenia?
abstract: This article reviews the literature on the acute effects of Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary psychoactive component of marijuana, on working memory, and the implications for schizophrenia. Working memory deficits are a hallmark feature of schizophrenia, and have been implicated as an etiologic mechanism contributing to the onset of the disorder. Regular marijuana smokers may also exhibit subtle working memory impairment relative to healthy controls, and an association between marijuana abuse and subsequent development of schizophrenia, though controversial, has been reported in the literature. The causal role that marijuana plays in working memory impairment related to schizophrenia, however, remains unclear. Thus, this article specifically considers the acute effects of marijuana on working memory performance. The ecologic relevance and clinical significance of these findings will be examined, and directions for future research will be recommended.
authors.affiliation: Dr. Vadhan is assistant professor of clinical psychology and Dr. Haney is associate professor of clinical neurobiology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons at the New York State Psychiatric Institute in New York City. Dr. Serper is professor of psychology at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York.
authors.forename: Nehal P
authors.initials: NP
authors.lastname: Vadhan
authors.forename: Mark R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Serper
authors.forename: Margaret
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Haney