How estrogen affects cocaine's impact on the brain's reward system
Estrogen receptor regulation of cocaine effects on dopamine terminals
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY · NIH-10901866
This study looks at how estrogen affects the way cocaine impacts the brain's reward system, especially in women who may be more at risk for addiction, to help find better treatment options for cocaine use.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10901866 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how estrogen receptors influence the effects of cocaine on the brain's dopamine system, particularly in women who are more vulnerable to cocaine addiction. By examining the differences in how male and female brains respond to cocaine, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that contribute to addiction. The research focuses on the mesolimbic dopamine system, which is crucial for reward and motivation, and how estrogen may modulate dopamine release in response to cocaine. This could lead to a better understanding of sex-specific treatment approaches for cocaine use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who are struggling with cocaine use disorder or have a history of cocaine addiction.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of cocaine use or are not affected by cocaine use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for cocaine addiction, particularly for women.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant sex differences in addiction behaviors, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights into treatment strategies.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY — Nashville, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ERICKSON, KIRSTY R. — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: ERICKSON, KIRSTY R.
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.