Investigating how certain brain structures affect thinking problems caused by methamphetamine use
Official title: Role of Perineuronal Nets in Methamphetamine-Induced Hypofrontality and Cognitive Deficits
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10849749 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called methamphetamine affects certain brain structures that help with thinking and memory, using rats to understand how these changes might relate to cognitive problems in people who struggle with substance use and depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $188,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA057620-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10849749 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of methamphetamine use who are experiencing cognitive deficits or related mental health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of methamphetamine use or those without cognitive deficits may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of perineuronal nets (PNNs) in the brain, particularly how they relate to cognitive deficits and reduced frontal cortex activity (hypofrontality) associated with methamphetamine use. By using a rat model, the study examines how chronic methamphetamine administration affects the formation of PNNs and their impact on brain function and cognition. The goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of cognitive issues in individuals with substance use disorders and depression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving cognitive function in patients with substance use disorders and related mental health conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on PNNs in the context of methamphetamine-induced hypofrontality is relatively novel, there is existing research indicating that understanding brain plasticity can lead to advancements in treating cognitive deficits.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lavin, Antonieta — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Lavin, Antonieta
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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.