How brain chemicals affect decision-making when facing delayed consequences
Official title: Circuit-specific catecholamine regulation of sensitivity to delayed punishment
Funded at University of Memphis · NIH-10928736 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain chemicals affect decision-making when it comes to facing consequences later on, like the withdrawal symptoms from substance use, and it aims to help us understand why people might not see the risks of their choices clearly, which could lead to better treatments for addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Memphis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $173,417 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA058160-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10928736 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 who may benefit from improved decision-making strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of substance use or related decision-making issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's catecholamines, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine, influence decision-making in the context of delayed punishment, such as the withdrawal symptoms experienced after substance use. Using a specially designed task, researchers will study how rats assess the negative consequences of their choices over time. By understanding the brain mechanisms involved, the research aims to uncover why individuals may underestimate the risks associated with delayed negative outcomes. This could lead to insights into substance use disorders and improve treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the brain's reward and punishment systems can lead to significant advancements in treating addiction, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Memphis
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Simon, Nicholas W — University of Memphis
- Study coordinator: Simon, Nicholas W
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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.