Exploring how chronic stress affects cocaine addiction and brain cells

Concurrent chronic stress and cocaine self-administration: Understanding effects on mPFC microglia and drug choice behavior

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN · NIH-10995530

This study is looking at how long-term stress affects brain cells and behavior related to cocaine use in rats, with the hope of finding new ways to help people struggling with cocaine addiction.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10995530 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between chronic stress and cocaine addiction using a rat model. It focuses on how stress impacts brain cells, specifically microglia, and their role in altering brain structure and behavior related to cocaine use. By simulating conditions of chronic stress alongside cocaine self-administration, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new treatment strategies for cocaine use disorder. The findings could provide insights into the biological underpinnings of addiction and stress.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with cocaine use disorder, especially those experiencing chronic stress.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have cocaine use disorder or are not experiencing chronic stress may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for treating cocaine use disorder, particularly for individuals affected by chronic stress.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of stress on addiction, but this specific approach is novel and aims to fill critical gaps in knowledge.

Where this research is happening

MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.