During adolescence, the brain regions such as prefrontal cortex necessary for cognitive and executive function, working memory, motivated behaviour and emotional regulation are being reorganized. Cholinergic system and cholinergic nicotinic receptors are important role players in this maturation process of the brain from adolescence to adulthood. The disruption of the function of the cholinergic system during this maturation process with external nicotine, via tobacco or e-cigarettes, has long-lasting consequences on this development, as the adolescent brain is quite sensitive to nicotine. The effects of nicotine on the adolescent brain differ from the effects on the adult brain. Further, adolescent nicotine exposure may induce epigenetic changes that sensitize the brain to other drugs of abuse via altering the response of the dopaminergic system.

We are pleased to announce that the FENS-sponsored SRNT-E mini-conference on Nicotine and the Developing Brain is going ahead as an online event in Blackboard.

Please note the time-zone shift (to CEST) and that fees for attendance have been reduced to reflect this change in format (this includes free tickets to early career researchers and those from Lower/Middle Income Countries). If requested, we will provide refunds for the difference in the ticket price to attendees who signed up before the price reduction, after the event has concluded. All registrants will receive information on how to attend this virtual meeting 24h before the start of the meeting.