Exploring how sex differences affect dopamine release in cocaine use disorder
Official title: Defining sex differences in GABA regulation of dopamine release in cocaine use disorder
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10901886 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how men and women’s brains respond differently to cocaine by focusing on a chemical called dopamine, which is important for feeling pleasure, and how certain brain receptors affect this response; the goal is to find better ways to help people struggling with cocaine addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $34,290 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DA056221-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901886 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cocaine use disorder, particularly those who are female, as they may experience unique vulnerabilities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a diagnosis of cocaine use disorder or those who are not affected by sex differences in drug response may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differences between males and females in how dopamine release is regulated in the brain's nucleus accumbens, particularly in the context of cocaine use disorder. It aims to understand how GABA receptors influence dopamine release and how cocaine self-administration may alter this regulation differently in men and women. By using advanced techniques like optical recordings with genetically encoded sensors, the study seeks to uncover the underlying neural mechanisms that contribute to these sex differences. This knowledge could lead to more tailored treatment approaches for individuals suffering from cocaine use disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that are specifically designed for men and women suffering from cocaine use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: While research on sex differences in addiction is ongoing, this specific focus on GABA regulation of dopamine release in the context of cocaine use disorder is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Christensen, Brooke a. — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Christensen, Brooke a.
Related research
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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.