How genes and environment affect brain and behavior in substance use
Neurobehavioral pathways of polygenic and polyenvironmental effects on the onset and maintenance of substance involvement
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11123251
This project looks at how our genes and surroundings shape brain development and behavior, influencing when and why people start and continue using substances, especially during teenage years and young adulthood.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11123251 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project aims to understand why some people develop problematic substance use, particularly during adolescence and young adulthood. Researchers believe that the way our brains mature, with certain areas developing faster than others, might make it harder to control impulses and emotions when tempting situations arise. We want to explore how both our genetic makeup and the environments we grow up in contribute to these brain and behavioral patterns. By understanding these connections, we hope to find better ways to prevent and treat substance use issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future related studies might include adolescents and young adults who are at risk for or are currently experiencing substance involvement.
Not a fit: Patients whose substance use issues are not primarily linked to developmental brain maturation or polygenic/polyenvironmental factors may not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more targeted prevention strategies and treatments for substance use disorders by identifying key genetic and environmental risk factors.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of polygenic and polyenvironmental effects on neurobehavioral pathways is complex, previous research has shown the influence of both genetic and environmental factors on substance use risk.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BOGDAN, RYAN H — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: BOGDAN, RYAN H
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.