How a brain chemical affects drug addiction and intake behavior
Official title: The role of corticotropin-releasing factor in modulating accumbal dopamine and producing escalation of drug intake
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11220428 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a brain chemical called CRF affects dopamine, which is linked to feelings of pleasure, to help us understand why some people may use drugs more and more, with the hope of finding new ways to help those struggling with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $45,255 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DA059249-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11220428 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of substance use disorders or those at risk of developing such disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of substance use or are not at risk for addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) influences dopamine levels in the brain's reward center, particularly in relation to drug addiction. By studying the neural circuitry involved in substance use disorders, the project aims to understand why some individuals escalate their drug intake. The research employs animal models to explore the relationship between CRF and dopamine signaling, which could reveal new therapeutic targets for treating addiction. The findings may lead to innovative strategies for preventing or reducing drug abuse behaviors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help individuals struggling with drug addiction by targeting specific brain mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of brain chemicals in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gordon-Fennell, Lydia — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Gordon-Fennell, Lydia
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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.