Exploring new drug therapies for addiction using brain-penetrating probes.
MAOI-inspired activity probes to translate epigenetics and genetics into drugs
This study is looking at how changes in our genes can affect addiction, and it's working on creating new medications that could help people based on their unique genetic makeup.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892993 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic and epigenetic changes contribute to addiction and aims to develop new drug therapies targeting these changes. By utilizing the chemistry of certain psychoactive drugs, the project will create innovative probes that can penetrate the brain and interact with specific enzymes involved in addiction. The approach combines advanced chemical techniques with insights from genetics to identify potential new treatments for central nervous system disorders. Patients may benefit from new therapies that are tailored to their genetic profiles and the biological mechanisms of their addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals struggling with drug addiction or dependence, particularly those with a genetic predisposition to these conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of drug addiction or related central nervous system disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective and personalized treatments for addiction and related central nervous system disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using pharmacological approaches to target genetic and epigenetic factors in addiction, making this a potentially impactful continuation of those efforts.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Matthews, Megan L — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Matthews, Megan L
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.