Investigating brain circuits related to smoking and genetics
Official title: Habenula Circuitry, Smoking, and Genomics
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11195089 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain and our genes affect smoking habits, with the goal of finding better ways to help people quit smoking and manage withdrawal symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $588,779 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA061057-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11195089 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of smoking or those diagnosed with Tobacco Use Disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not smoke or have never used tobacco products may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the neural circuitry associated with smoking and the genetic factors that influence it, aiming to develop new treatments for Tobacco Use Disorder. By focusing on the habenula, a brain region linked to nicotine's effects, the study seeks to understand how this area contributes to nicotine avoidance and withdrawal symptoms. Utilizing advanced neuroimaging techniques, the research will analyze brain function in relation to smoking behaviors, potentially leading to precision medicine approaches for treatment. The study will leverage large datasets to enhance understanding of these mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for individuals struggling with tobacco addiction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain circuitry related to addiction, but this approach is novel in its focus on the habenula and its specific role in smoking behavior.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: London, Edythe Danick — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: London, Edythe Danick
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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.