Gene therapy to treat cocaine and alcohol abuse
A cutaneous gene therapy for cocaine abuse and alcohol co-abuse
This study is testing a new gene therapy that uses special treatments to help people struggling with cocaine and alcohol abuse, by making skin cells deliver these treatments over time to help manage their addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10666502 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel gene therapy approach to address cocaine and alcohol abuse, which often occur together. It utilizes modified human butyrylcholinesterase (hBChE) and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) receptor agonists to reduce the effects of these substances. The therapy involves engineering skin cells to deliver these treatments effectively over a longer period. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR, the researchers aim to create a sustainable method for managing addiction in patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are actively struggling with cocaine and alcohol use disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently using cocaine or alcohol may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a long-lasting treatment option for individuals struggling with cocaine and alcohol addiction.
How similar studies have performed: While gene therapy for addiction is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in using similar methods for other conditions.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Ming — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Xu, Ming
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.