Brain Factors in Decision-Making and Addiction
Neurotrophic and ontogenic factors in medial orbitofrontal cortical function
This research explores how certain brain factors influence our ability to make good decisions, especially when facing addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140410 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
In our daily lives, we often choose actions by thinking about what might happen next, and we change our behavior if the expected outcomes become more or less appealing. However, addictive drugs can make it hard to think ahead, causing individuals to seek drugs even when it harms their relationships or jobs. This project looks at a specific brain area, the medial orbitofrontal cortex (MO), which is essential for making choices based on future rewards. We are studying how certain brain chemicals, like Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), help the MO function correctly and how addiction affects this process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for anyone interested in how the brain controls decision-making and how addiction impacts these processes, potentially benefiting those with substance use disorders in the future.
Not a fit: Patients not experiencing substance use disorders or related decision-making challenges may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of addiction and new ways to help people make healthier decisions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous findings in both animals and humans have shown that addictive drugs affect the brain area being studied, and that BDNF plays a role in decision-making.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gourley, Shannon Leigh — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Gourley, Shannon Leigh
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.