How nicotine affects learning through brain pathways
Official title: Role of striatal pathways in learning with nicotine stimulus
Funded at University of New Hampshire · NIH-10514350 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how nicotine affects learning and behavior by exploring certain pathways in the brain, especially in a region called the striatum, and aims to find out how this knowledge can help improve treatments for people struggling with nicotine addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Hampshire NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $446,251 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DA056871-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10514350 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are nicotine users or those interested in understanding the effects of nicotine on learning and behavior.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use nicotine or are not interested in nicotine-related learning processes may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific brain pathways in how nicotine influences learning and behavior. It focuses on the striatum, a brain region involved in reward and learning processes, and examines how nicotine interacts with other reinforcing stimuli like food and social interactions. By studying the different parts of the striatum and their connections to other brain areas, the research aims to uncover the complex mechanisms behind nicotine addiction and its effects on learning. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better treatments for nicotine dependence.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for treating nicotine addiction and enhancing learning processes in individuals affected by nicotine use.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in understanding the role of brain pathways in addiction, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Hampshire
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Charntikov, Sergios — University of New Hampshire
- Study coordinator: Charntikov, Sergios
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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.