How sex affects substance use, stress, and relapse
MUSC Specialized Center of Research Excellence on Sex Differences Renewal 2022
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA · NIH-11166352
This center looks at how biological sex influences cannabis and other substance use, stress-triggered relapse, and treatment needs for people from young adulthood through postpartum and older ages.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11166352 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This center brings together clinicians and scientists who study why men and women may differ in substance use and in relapsing after stress. Four connected projects focus on cannabis use across the lifespan—targeting emerging adults, postpartum women, and older adults—using clinical visits, translational lab work, and pilot projects. The team shares data, trains new investigators, and partners across South Carolina and nationally to spread findings. If you join, you may be asked to complete interviews, attend clinic visits, and provide health information or biosamples for research.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who use cannabis or have a substance use disorder—especially emerging adults, postpartum women, and older adults—are the primary candidates for participation in related projects.
Not a fit: People without substance use concerns or those not near MUSC or its partner sites may not be eligible or see direct benefits from the center's projects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to sex-specific prevention and treatment approaches for cannabis and other substance use disorders, improving care for affected people.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research has shown sex differences in substance use and stress-related relapse, but bringing lifespan-focused cannabis work together with translational and clinical projects in one center is a newer, coordinated approach.
Where this research is happening
CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES
- MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA — CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MCRAE-CLARK, AIMEE L — MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA
- Study coordinator: MCRAE-CLARK, AIMEE L
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.