How cocaine affects brain cells and dopamine
Cocaine: effects on single neurons
This project explores how cocaine changes the brain's dopamine system, which is important for understanding addiction and conditions like ADHD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143121 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking closely at how dopamine, a brain chemical, works in the brain and how drugs like cocaine can change its function. Our work focuses on specific brain cells in mice to understand where dopamine acts and how long it stays active after being released. We also want to see how cocaine immediately affects these dopamine systems and how these changes might contribute to addiction. This foundational understanding is crucial for developing new ways to help people with addiction and other brain disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational laboratory work does not directly involve patients, but it is highly relevant to individuals affected by addiction, ADHD, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, or depression.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by addiction or dopamine-related neurological or psychiatric conditions may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of addiction and dopamine-related disorders, potentially paving the way for new and more effective treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Research into dopamine's role in health and disease has been ongoing for decades, with many studies contributing to our current understanding of various neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, John T — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Williams, John T
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.