How exercise affects the brain's response to cocaine cravings
Effects of exercise on dopaminergic mechanisms of cocaine relapse
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE · NIH-10769805
This study is looking at how regular exercise, like running on a wheel, might help people recovering from cocaine addiction by affecting the brain's feel-good chemicals, which could reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (RIVERSIDE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10769805 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how aerobic exercise influences the brain's dopamine systems related to cocaine addiction and relapse. By using a mouse model, the study examines the effects of chronic wheel running on dopamine release and the brain's response to cocaine-related cues. The goal is to understand the mechanisms by which exercise may help reduce cravings and prevent relapse in individuals recovering from cocaine addiction. Advanced techniques such as fast-scan cyclic voltammetry and electrophysiological recordings will be employed to gather data on brain activity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cocaine use who are seeking effective strategies to manage cravings and prevent relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who are not recovering from cocaine addiction or who do not engage in aerobic exercise may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new behavioral treatments that utilize exercise to help prevent relapse in individuals recovering from cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using exercise as a therapeutic intervention for addiction, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
RIVERSIDE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE — RIVERSIDE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZLEBNIK, NATALIE — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE
- Study coordinator: ZLEBNIK, NATALIE
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.