Investigating how cocaine affects cholesterol metabolism in the brain
Cocaine self-administration and cholesterol metabolism
['FUNDING_R21'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10670400
This study is looking at how using cocaine affects cholesterol in the brain and how that might change the way dopamine works, which could help us find better ways to treat people struggling with cocaine use disorder.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10670400 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between cocaine use and cholesterol metabolism in the brain, particularly focusing on how cocaine alters dopamine transporter (DAT) interactions. By examining the effects of chronic cocaine exposure on cholesterol levels in the striatum, the study aims to uncover new molecular mechanisms that may contribute to cocaine use disorder (CUD). The researchers will utilize both pharmacological and genetic approaches to manipulate cholesterol levels and observe the resulting impacts on cocaine's effects on dopamine reuptake. This could lead to a better understanding of CUD and potential new treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cocaine use disorder who are seeking new treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use cocaine or have other substance use disorders unrelated to cocaine may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel pharmacological treatments for cocaine use disorder, improving outcomes for patients struggling with addiction.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of linking cholesterol metabolism to cocaine use disorder is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction.
Where this research is happening
WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES
- WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHEN, RONG — WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: CHEN, RONG
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 below.
Conditions: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (U.S.), Centers for Disease Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Centers for Disease Control, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention