Investigating how the Reelin protein affects responses to drugs like cocaine.
Role of Reelin protein in the cellular and behavioral response to drugs of abuse
This study is looking at how a protein called Reelin affects the brain's reaction to cocaine, which could help us learn more about addiction and find new ways to treat substance use disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061750 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the Reelin protein in the brain's response to drugs of abuse, particularly cocaine. By studying how Reelin influences specific neurons in the brain, researchers aim to uncover new insights into the neurobiology of addiction. The approach involves advanced techniques like single-molecule fluorescent in-situ hybridization to visualize Reelin expression in brain tissues. This could lead to a better understanding of substance use disorders and potentially identify new therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who have a history of substance use or addiction.
Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with substance use disorders or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies for substance use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of Reelin in addiction is under-studied, similar research approaches have shown promise in understanding neurobiological mechanisms of addiction.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brida, Kasey Lynn — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Brida, Kasey Lynn
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.