Creating new compounds to help treat stimulant use disorder
Chemical synthesis of illudalic acid analogs for stimulant use disorder
This study is working on creating new medicines that could help people struggling with stimulant use disorder by targeting a specific protein in the brain, with the hope of reducing cravings and improving recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10514808 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new chemical compounds that could serve as potential treatments for stimulant use disorder, a condition affecting millions of Americans. The project aims to synthesize analogs of illudalic acid, a natural product that has shown promise in inhibiting a specific protein linked to substance abuse. By targeting the protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor-type D (PTPRD), the researchers hope to create effective medications that can reduce stimulant-seeking behavior. The approach involves innovative chemical synthesis techniques to produce these compounds, which will be tested for their effectiveness in preclinical models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with stimulant use disorder or those at risk of developing such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have stimulant use disorder or related substance abuse issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of the first FDA-approved medications for stimulant use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting PTPRD for stimulant use disorder is relatively novel, similar strategies in other areas of substance abuse have shown promise in preclinical studies.
Where this research is happening
Morgantown, United States
- West Virginia University — Morgantown, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dudley, Gregory B — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Dudley, Gregory B
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.