Investigating how serotonin receptors affect cocaine addiction in rats
Official title: In Vivo Characterization of 5-HT7 Modulators in Rat Models of Cocaine Use Disorder
Funded at Praeventix, LLC · NIH-10903814 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific serotonin receptor in the brain might affect cocaine addiction, using rats to help find new ways to treat people struggling with this issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Praeventix, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Exton, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,250,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R44DA055443-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10903814 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with cocaine addiction or those at risk of developing cocaine use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cocaine or have other substance use disorders unrelated to cocaine may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of serotonin receptors, specifically the 5-HT7 receptor, in cocaine use disorder by using rat models. The study aims to understand how these receptors influence the brain's reward system and decision-making processes affected by cocaine. By examining the interactions between serotonin and dopamine systems, the research seeks to identify potential new treatments for cocaine addiction. The methodology involves in vivo characterization, which means observing the effects in living organisms rather than in vitro or in isolated systems.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new medications for treating cocaine use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in modulating serotonin receptors to influence dopamine activity, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Praeventix, LLC
Exton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pippin, Douglas Anthony — Praeventix, LLC
- Study coordinator: Pippin, Douglas Anthony
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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.