Exploring the connection between gut health and addiction
Official title: Multidisciplinary Characterization of the Gut-Brain Axis in Addiction
Funded at Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-10908045 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect addiction and substance use problems, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how our gut health can influence our brain and behavior, with the hope of finding better treatments for those struggling with these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,391,376 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2AT013279-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10908045 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who are struggling with substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have substance use disorders or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the gut microbiota influences addiction and substance use disorders (SUDs) by examining the interactions between gut bacteria and brain function. Researchers will utilize advanced techniques like metagenomics and metabolomics to uncover the mechanisms behind these gut-brain connections. By studying both human and animal models, the project aims to identify specific pathways that may contribute to the development of SUDs, ultimately seeking to improve treatment options for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for addiction by targeting gut health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut-brain axis, but this approach aims to provide deeper mechanistic insights that are still largely untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
Piscataway, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cuesta, Santiago — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Cuesta, Santiago
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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.