How cannabinoids affect behavior and addiction
Official title: Endocannabinoid modulation of behavioral engagement via an aPVT-NAc circuit
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11014962 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how cannabis affects the brain and behavior, especially in people dealing with addiction, to help find better ways to treat substance use issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $174,625 |
| NIH project number | 5K99DA059617-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014962 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cannabis use or those experiencing substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or have no history of substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neurobiological mechanisms behind how cannabinoids influence behavior, particularly in the context of addiction. It focuses on the interaction between specific brain regions, namely the Paraventricular Thalamus and the Nucleus Accumbens, which are crucial for reward processing and motivation. By utilizing advanced neuroscience techniques, the study aims to uncover how chronic use of cannabis alters these brain circuits and impacts reward-seeking behaviors. This understanding could lead to better treatment strategies for substance use disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for individuals struggling with cannabis addiction and other substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiology of addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marcus, David J. — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Marcus, David J.
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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.