NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving identification methods for substance use disorders using genetic data

Official title: Framework to Accelerate Substance Use Disorder Genetic Studies through Customizable, EHR-Based Precision Phenotyping

Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11263104 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on a new way to better identify substance use disorders by using health records and genetic information, which could help doctors find more accurate treatments and support for people struggling with these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2022
Project endJuly 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$525,000
NIH project number7DP1DA056667-04
Project IDNIH-11263104 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with or are at risk for substance use disorders.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have a history of substance use or are not at risk for substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a new method for accurately identifying substance use disorders (SUD) by utilizing electronic health records (EHR) and genetic data. The approach focuses on creating a customizable phenotyping framework that can integrate various data sources, such as billing codes and medication information, to provide a more nuanced understanding of SUD. By evaluating this framework across multiple organizations, the research seeks to enhance the identification of SUD cases and support genetic studies that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies. Ultimately, this work aims to contribute to the development of clinical tools that can improve patient care.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate identification and understanding of substance use disorders, resulting in improved prevention and treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using electronic health records and genetic data for improving disease identification, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

  • Vanderbilt University Medical Center
    Nashville, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Jeffery, Alvin Dean — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Jeffery, Alvin Dean

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.