Creating a new imaging tool to study addiction in the brain
Official title: Development of novel radioligand for PET imaging targeting the orexin 1 receptor
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10784351 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new imaging tool that helps us see a specific brain receptor linked to addiction, which could lead to better treatments for people struggling with substance use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $193,923 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DA059714-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10784351 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of substance use disorders or those at risk for addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any history of substance use or addiction-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel radioligand for PET imaging that targets the orexin 1 receptor, which plays a crucial role in addiction. By synthesizing and evaluating potential OX1R antagonists, the researchers aim to create a tracer that can visualize orexin receptors in the brain. This imaging tool will help in understanding the functions of orexin in drug addiction, potentially leading to better treatment options. The project includes testing the tracer in baboons before considering human applications in future studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals struggling with addiction.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using imaging techniques to study addiction, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kovacic, Isabelle — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Kovacic, Isabelle
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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.