Investigating how certain brain cells affect cocaine cravings
Official title: Nucleus accumbens cholinergic interneurons and cue-induced cocaine craving
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10867450 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in a region linked to addiction affect cravings for cocaine after someone has stopped using it for a while, with the hope of finding new ways to help people who are trying to overcome cocaine addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $185,347 |
| NIH project number | 5K99DA057360-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867450 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cocaine use disorder who are seeking treatment or support for their addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by cocaine addiction or those who have not used cocaine may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of cholinergic interneurons in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region involved in addiction, particularly focusing on how these cells influence cravings for cocaine after periods of abstinence. Using a rat model, the study examines how these neurons behave during the incubation of cocaine craving, a phenomenon where cravings intensify over time. By understanding the mechanisms behind this craving, the research aims to identify potential targets for new treatments that could help individuals struggling with cocaine use disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to reduce cravings and prevent relapse in individuals recovering from cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on cholinergic interneurons in this context is novel, previous studies have shown success in understanding the role of other neuron types in addiction and craving behaviors.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kawa, Alexander Borg — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Kawa, Alexander Borg
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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.