How brain pathways influence risky choices and cocaine addiction
Official title: Contribution of BLA-mPFC pathway to risky choice and compulsive cocaine seeking
Funded at Northern Kentucky University · NIH-10730229 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain connections influence risky choices and the desire for cocaine, using animal models to help us understand addiction better, which could lead to improved treatments for people struggling with substance use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northern Kentucky University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Highland Heights, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2019 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $420,000 |
| NIH project number | 2R15DA047610-02A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10730229 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for developing substance use disorders or those with a history of risky decision-making behaviors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of substance use or risky decision-making behaviors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific brain pathways in making risky decisions and seeking cocaine. By studying the connections between the basolateral amygdala and the medial prefrontal cortex, the research aims to understand how these pathways affect behavior related to substance use disorders. The approach involves using animal models to assess decision-making processes and addiction-like behaviors, which could lead to insights for developing better treatment strategies for individuals at risk of substance misuse.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiology of decision-making and addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yates, Justin Ryan — Northern Kentucky University
- Study coordinator: Yates, Justin Ryan
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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.