Developing a new treatment to help reduce cocaine cravings
Advancing FGF13-Nav1.6 modulators to normalize Nucleus Accumbens activity for Cocaine Use Disorder
This study is looking at how a new medication might help people with cocaine addiction by targeting a specific protein in the brain that influences cravings and relapses, and it will be tested in lab models to see if it works safely.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iontx INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11168646 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on cocaine use disorder, a serious condition with no FDA-approved medications. It investigates how a specific protein, FGF13, interacts with a sodium channel in the brain that affects cravings and relapse. By optimizing a new small-molecule compound, the research aims to create a medication that can help normalize brain activity in individuals struggling with cocaine addiction. The approach includes testing the compound in laboratory models to assess its effectiveness and safety.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cocaine use disorder who are seeking treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a cocaine use disorder or those who are not actively seeking treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking medication that significantly reduces cravings and relapse rates in individuals with cocaine use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in the brain for addiction treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Galveston, United States
- Iontx INC. — Galveston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lijffijt, Marijn — Iontx INC.
- Study coordinator: Lijffijt, Marijn
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.