Exploring how cocaine affects gut bacteria and brain communication
Official title: Investigating microbiota of the gut-brain axis and the impact of cocaine
Funded at Alabama State University · NIH-10915725 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cocaine use affects the bacteria in your gut and how those changes might impact your emotions and stress levels, especially for people who struggle with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Alabama State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Montgomery, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $123,404 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM149358-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915725 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of cocaine use or addiction, particularly those from African American communities who are disproportionately affected by these issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cocaine or have no history of substance abuse may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between cocaine use and changes in gut microbiota, particularly focusing on how these changes may influence emotional behavior and the body's stress response. By analyzing microbial signatures in the gut-brain axis, the study aims to uncover potential biomarkers related to cocaine overdose. The research specifically targets the impact of cocaine on gut bacteria and its implications for mental health, especially in populations disproportionately affected by addiction. Participants may undergo evaluations that include microbiota analysis and assessments of emotional and physiological responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into addiction treatment and prevention strategies by understanding the role of gut bacteria in cocaine-related behaviors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the influence of gut microbiota on addiction behaviors, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Alabama State University
Montgomery, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Javan, Gulnaz — Alabama State University
- Study coordinator: Javan, Gulnaz
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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.