Investigating how a specific gene affects nicotine withdrawal in the brain.
Official title: Role of Dynamic Signaling of NRG3-ErbB4 in the Prefrontal Cortex in Mediating Nicotine Withdrawal Phenotypes
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11015770 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes in the brain might affect how people feel and behave when they stop using nicotine, with the hope of finding new ways to help people quit smoking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | January 12, 2024 |
| Project end | January 11, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DA057812-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11015770 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with nicotine dependence or those interested in smoking cessation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not smoke or are not interested in quitting smoking may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the Neuregulin 3 (NRG3) gene and its receptor ErbB4 in the prefrontal cortex during nicotine withdrawal. By using a genetic mouse model, the study aims to explore how variations in these genes influence behavioral responses to nicotine dependence and withdrawal. The researchers will analyze the specific contributions of ErbB4 to nicotine withdrawal behaviors and examine the molecular changes that occur in the brain during chronic nicotine exposure and withdrawal. This approach could lead to new insights into potential therapies for smoking cessation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for nicotine addiction and improved smoking cessation strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in exploring genetic factors related to nicotine dependence, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prantzalos, Emily — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Prantzalos, Emily
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
East Palestine health impact study following train derailment
A community-engaged study in East Palestine will follow residents to understand health symptoms, exposure markers, and air quality after a major train derailment.
-
Grade C Periodontitis in Young People: Genetic Clues to a Severe, Early Condition
A research team is studying why some young people develop a severe form of gum disease called Grade C periodontitis and how genetics and bacteria like Aa may contribute.
-
Regulation of exon junction complex in cancer biology
This grant studies how a key molecular complex that controls RNA processing acts in cancer, with the aim of understanding how it contributes to cancer cell behavior.
-
Alcohol use and suicidal thoughts: how decision-making affects risk
This project looks at how acute alcohol use and people’s decision-making patterns relate to suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adults.
-
Kentucky workplace health surveillance program improving safety for workers
A national institute-funded program is supporting Kentucky to monitor and improve safety and health at work for better protection of workers.
-
Gabapentin use in older adults and related health outcomes
This project will look at how gabapentin is used by older adults and whether that use is linked to health outcomes using Medicare data.
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.