Comment-11380-Michelle Sexton, University of California San Diego

Cannabinoids may be "neuro-teratogens". However, public sentiment is that cannabis is safe in pregnancy and that THC is an innocuous compound. While cannabinoids are generally considered "nontoxic", and known NOT to cause "birth defects" (no visible morphologic effects), cannabinoid compounds are known to cross the placenta. Efffects on brain development are likely due to the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in brain development. Until there is more longitudinal data available, the developing brain is deserving of protection. I have attached three articles that present the state of the science, for reference.