How adolescent methamphetamine exposure affects brain development differently in girls and boys
Neural mechanisms of sex differences in vulnerability to the effects of adolescent methamphetamine exposure
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · NIH-10669275
This study looks at how using methamphetamine during the teenage years affects brain development in boys and girls, especially to see why girls might be more at risk for addiction, using brain samples from young rats to learn more about these changes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10669275 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to methamphetamine during adolescence impacts brain development, particularly focusing on differences between female and male adolescents. The study examines changes in specific brain cells and structures that may make girls more vulnerable to substance use disorders. By analyzing brain samples from adolescent rats, the researchers aim to understand the timing and effects of drug exposure on brain maturation. This could provide insights into why girls may be at higher risk for addiction when exposed to drugs during critical developmental periods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-20, especially those who may have been exposed to methamphetamine or are at risk for substance use disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescents or who have not been exposed to methamphetamine may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for substance use disorders in adolescents, particularly for girls.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown that understanding sex differences in brain development and drug exposure can lead to significant advancements in addiction treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN — CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GULLEY, JOSHUA M — UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
- Study coordinator: GULLEY, JOSHUA M
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.