New treatment for cocaine use disorder using a dual inhibitor
Official title: Developing a novel treatment of cocaine use disorder using an IND dual inhibitor of Cav3 channel and soluble epoxide hydrolase
Funded at Afasci, INC. · NIH-10786151 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new treatment for people dealing with cocaine addiction by testing a special medication that targets certain brain channels and enzymes, with the hope of reducing the negative effects of cocaine and helping individuals feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Afasci, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Redwood City, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | September 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $319,547 |
| NIH project number | 1R43DA059524-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10786151 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cocaine use disorder who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a cocaine use disorder or those who are not seeking treatment for substance use issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel treatment for cocaine use disorder (CUD) by developing a dual inhibitor that targets specific ion channels and enzymes in the brain. The approach focuses on inhibiting T-type Cav3 channels and soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), which are believed to play a role in the neurobiological effects of cocaine. By conducting preclinical studies, the researchers aim to demonstrate the effectiveness of this treatment in reducing cocaine-induced hyperexcitability and neuroinflammation, potentially leading to improved outcomes for individuals struggling with addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new therapeutic option for individuals with cocaine use disorder, helping to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific dual inhibitor approach is novel, previous research has shown success with targeting similar pathways in addiction treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Afasci, INC.
Redwood City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xie, Xinmin Simon — Afasci, INC.
- Study coordinator: Xie, Xinmin Simon
Related research
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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.