High-throughput testing of gene variants linked to substance use disorders
Official title: High-Throughput Functional Genomics of Variants in Genes Linked to Substance Use Disorders
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11367912 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Scientists will rapidly test many genetic variants tied to substance use disorders to understand which ones affect biology in humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $466,500 |
| NIH project number | 5DP1DA058706-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11367912 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with substance use disorders or those at risk who may benefit from future targeted therapies may be connected to later-stage research.
✕Less likely to help
People not enrolled in early-stage genetic studies or who do not have substance use disorders may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project uses advanced lab methods to test thousands of gene variants and regulatory elements, aiming to reveal which changes actually influence substance use biology. It will employ Massively Parallel Reporter Assays and other high-throughput techniques to map functional effects. The goal is to translate genetic findings into clearer molecular targets for future therapies. The work is conducted with human-relevant genetic sequences and model systems to understand disease mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to more precise targets for therapies and personalized approaches for people with substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous high-throughput studies have successfully linked certain variants to functional effects, supporting this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baldridge, Dustin M — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Baldridge, Dustin M
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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.