Exploring brain changes caused by addictive substances
Official title: Multi-Scale Imaging Core (MSIC)
Funded at Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-10898847 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how drugs affect the brain in different ways, from tiny changes to how brain circuits work, to help us understand addiction better and find new ways to treat it, which could really help people struggling with substance use disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P30 center grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $451,319 |
| NIH project number | 5P30DA056410-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10898847 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals affected by substance use disorders or those at risk of developing such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of substance use or are not at risk for substance use disorders may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how addictive substances affect the brain at various levels, from molecular changes to circuit activity. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques, the project aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of substance use disorders, including behaviors like compulsion and withdrawal. The Multi-Scale Imaging Core will provide researchers with access to cutting-edge equipment and training to analyze these changes in detail, ultimately contributing to better prevention and treatment strategies for addiction. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research that could lead to new therapeutic approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative strategies for preventing and treating substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using advanced imaging techniques to study brain changes associated with addiction, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Trustees of Indiana University
Bloomington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Hui-Chen — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Lu, Hui-Chen
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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.