Investigating how brain changes from drug use affect addiction behaviors
Official title: Cell-Type Selective Transcriptional and Mitochondrial Control of Drug Seeking
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10948415 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using drugs, like nicotine, changes the brain and affects addiction, with the hope of finding new ways to help people who struggle with substance use disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $169,474 |
| NIH project number | 1K01DA061048-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10948415 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with nicotine addiction or those who have experienced substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use nicotine or have no history of substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the biological mechanisms behind substance use disorders, particularly focusing on how drug-induced changes in the brain's structure and function contribute to addiction. By examining the role of epigenetic modifications and mitochondrial function in specific brain cells, the study aims to uncover new insights into how nicotine affects behavior and craving. The approach includes advanced techniques like ATAC sequencing to analyze chromatin accessibility and gene expression in response to nicotine. This could lead to a better understanding of the persistent nature of addiction and potential new treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for treating nicotine addiction and improving recovery outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the epigenetic factors involved in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Calarco, Cali Ann — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Calarco, Cali Ann
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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.