Neural and computational markers linked to reward that may predict cannabis use escalation in young adults with anhedonia
Official title: Neural and computational markers of reward processes as longitudinal risk markers of cannabis use escalation in young adults with anhedonia
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11432812 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study follows young adults with anhedonia to see how their brain responses to rewards and computational signals relate to increasing cannabis use over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $726,413 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DA066910-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11432812 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Young adults aged 18–21 who experience anhedonia and are willing to participate in brain-imaging and behavioral studies.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without anhedonia or those not willing to engage in brain-imaging or longitudinal follow-ups may not benefit.
What this research studies
If you are 18–21 and experience anhedonia, researchers will look at brain responses to rewards while you perform tasks, using brain imaging and computer analyses to find markers that might predict escalating cannabis use. The project follows participants over several years to see how these markers relate to changes in cannabis consumption and related behaviors. The goal is to identify early signals that could guide prevention and personalized interventions for those at higher risk. Participation would involve assessments, tasks, and imaging sessions, with careful attention to safety and privacy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could lead to earlier, more targeted prevention efforts for young adults at risk of escalating cannabis use due to anhedonia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests neural reward processing differences relate to substance use, but this project adds longitudinal, anhedonia-focused insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Crane, Natania a — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Crane, Natania a
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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.