Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Experience Influences ΔFosB and Downstream Gene Expression in Prefrontal Cortex

Abstract Introduction: Repeated administration of abused drugs, including Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), induces the stable transcription factor ΔFosB in dopaminergic terminal field regions of the mesolimbic system. These studies investigated the effect of prior repeated THC treatment on THC-induced ΔFosB expression and regulation of downstream targets in the forebrain. Methods: Mice received THC (10 mg/kg) or vehicle twice daily for 13 days, and then half of each group received a single injection of THC or vehicle 45 min before brain collection. ΔFosB