Investigating how early life stress and cocaine use affect brain development and addiction risk.

Early Life Stress, Chronic Drug Use and Neuroplasticity in Nonhuman Primate Models of Cocaine Abuse: Relevance to Treatment Strategies

['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11016923

This study looks at how tough experiences in childhood, like abuse or neglect, might lead to a higher chance of developing a cocaine addiction later on, and it also explores how these effects can be different for boys and girls, all to help improve treatment for people struggling with addiction.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorEMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11016923 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between early life stress, such as childhood maltreatment, and the development of cocaine addiction later in life. Using nonhuman primate models, the study examines how these early adverse experiences influence brain development and increase vulnerability to substance use disorders. The research also considers sex differences in addiction risk, aiming to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms that contribute to these disparities. By understanding these factors, the research seeks to inform better treatment strategies for those affected by addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of early life stress and cocaine use, particularly adolescents and adults.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early life stress or do not have a history of cocaine use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals struggling with cocaine addiction, particularly those with a history of early life stress.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological impacts of early life stress on addiction, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

ATLANTA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: addictive disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.