How drug use affects memory and decision-making in the brain
Official title: Gene Regulation in Memory Circuits as a Consequence of Polysubstance Use
Funded at Brown University · NIH-10896244 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how using alcohol and methamphetamine together affects memory and decision-making by examining tiny fruit flies, which can help us find better ways to understand and treat addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $500,864 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA058947-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10896244 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of polysubstance use, particularly those who have used alcohol and methamphetamine.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not engaged in polysubstance use or those with no history of addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of polysubstance use, particularly alcohol and methamphetamine, on the brain's memory circuits. By studying the gene regulatory networks in fruit flies, the research aims to uncover how these substances alter brain function and influence decision-making. The approach combines genetic analysis with behavioral assessments to provide insights into the molecular mechanisms at play. Understanding these processes could lead to better strategies for addressing addiction and its consequences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for addiction by revealing how substance use impacts memory and decision-making.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding the effects of substance use on brain function, but this specific approach using Drosophila is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaun, Karla R. — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Kaun, Karla R.
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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.