Genes and brain systems that influence addiction risk
Center for Systems Neurogenetics of Addiction
Researchers are using mouse and human genetics plus brain and behavior tests to find why some people are more likely to develop cocaine addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Jackson Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bar Harbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11129615 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This Center uses diverse mouse populations that mirror human genetic variation, combined with genetic engineering, to study traits linked to cocaine use. Scientists measure behaviors such as impulsivity, cocaine sensitization, and self-administration across many mice and link those behaviors to genes and brain circuits. They apply computational and genome analyses to integrate results and compare mouse findings with human genetic data. The aim is to map biological pathways that explain why some people are more vulnerable to addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with a history of cocaine use, those at high risk for addiction, or individuals willing to share genetic or clinical data may be candidates for related human studies.
Not a fit: People not affected by substance use or unwilling to participate in genetic or behavioral research may not receive direct benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to biological targets for preventing or treating cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and human genetics studies have found genes linked to addiction behaviors, but converting those findings into effective treatments has been limited to date.
Where this research is happening
Bar Harbor, United States
- Jackson Laboratory — Bar Harbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chesler, Elissa J — Jackson Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Chesler, Elissa J
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.