How specific brain channels affect cocaine reward and addiction
Official title: Contributions of KCNQ2/3 channels to medium spiny neuron excitability and cocaine reward
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11082457 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain channels affect the way brain cells respond to cocaine, which could help us understand addiction better and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $77,037 |
| NIH project number | 5F32DA058453-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082457 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with cocaine addiction or those at risk of developing substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cocaine or have no history of substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of KCNQ2/3 channels in medium spiny neurons of the brain, particularly how they influence excitability and reward processing related to cocaine use. By examining the effects of cocaine on these channels, the study aims to understand the underlying mechanisms that contribute to addiction and relapse. The approach involves both pharmacological manipulation and analysis of neuronal behavior in response to cocaine exposure, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets for substance use disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce cocaine addiction and improve recovery outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of ion channels in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jorgensen, Emily — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Jorgensen, Emily
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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.