How opioids in the brain affect cocaine-seeking behavior
Regulation of striatal microcircuits by endogenous opioids as a novel mechanism underlying cocaine seeking
This study is looking at how certain brain chemicals affect the way people crave cocaine, aiming to understand how cocaine changes brain activity and could help find new ways to treat addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11087581 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of endogenous opioids in the brain's striatal circuits and how they influence cocaine-seeking behavior. By examining the interactions between specific neurons in the striatum, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which cocaine alters GABA transmission and enhances the release of the opioid peptide enkephalin. The research employs advanced techniques such as whole cell electrophysiology to analyze neuronal activity in response to cocaine exposure. This could provide insights into the biological underpinnings of addiction and potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cocaine use or addiction.
Not a fit: Patients who have never used cocaine or have other substance use disorders unrelated to cocaine may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cocaine addiction by targeting specific neural pathways.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of opioids in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dobbs, Lauren K — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Dobbs, Lauren K
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.