How cocaine affects brain circuits related to addiction
Official title: Recruitment of striatal enkephalin by cocaine as a substrate for striatopallidal circuit adaptations and cocaine seeking
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11058347 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cocaine affects certain brain pathways related to addiction, especially focusing on a brain chemical called enkephalin, to help us understand why people crave cocaine and seek it out, which could lead to new treatments for those dealing with cocaine addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $45,771 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DA058522-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058347 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cocaine use disorder, particularly those with severe symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of cocaine use or those with other substance use disorders unrelated to cocaine may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of cocaine on specific brain circuits that are involved in addiction, particularly focusing on the role of a brain chemical called enkephalin. The study aims to understand how cocaine alters the activity of these circuits, which may lead to increased cravings and compulsive drug-seeking behavior. By examining the interactions between enkephalin and other neurotransmitters in the brain, the research seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to cocaine use disorder. This could provide insights into potential new treatments for individuals struggling with cocaine addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for cocaine use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Matsumura, Kanako — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Matsumura, Kanako
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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.