How blocking a specific enzyme in the brain affects addiction-related signals
Official title: Input-specific synaptic plasticity in the nucleus accumbens evoked by inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11064762 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how blocking a certain enzyme in a part of the brain linked to addiction might change how brain cells communicate, with the hope of finding new ways to help people struggling with substance use disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 5F32DA060664-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064762 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with substance use disorders or those at risk of developing such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have substance use disorders or related behavioral issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the nucleus accumbens, a key brain region involved in addiction, can alter synaptic plasticity. By focusing on specific types of neurons that respond to this inhibition, the study aims to identify molecular targets that could lead to new treatments for substance use disorders. The approach involves examining the effects of ACE inhibition on the signaling pathways of neurons that drive addictive behaviors. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to better manage or treat addiction through targeted therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting synaptic plasticity to address addiction, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Swanson, Jessica — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Swanson, Jessica
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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.