Oxytocin's role in dopamine release related to addiction and social rewards
Official title: Oxytocin Mediates Phasic and Tonic Dopamine Release
Funded at University of Memphis · NIH-10877713 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called oxytocin can change the way your brain responds to rewards from both drugs and social interactions, which could help improve treatment for people dealing with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Memphis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $69,378 |
| NIH project number | 5R03DA057563-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877713 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are struggling with substance use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing substance use disorder or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how oxytocin affects dopamine release in the brain, particularly in relation to substance use disorder (SUD) and social rewards. By examining the influence of oxytocin on specific brain regions, the study aims to understand how it can alter the way individuals process rewards from drugs versus social interactions. The approach includes administering oxytocin and measuring its effects on neurochemical release, which could lead to improved treatment strategies for those struggling with addiction. The findings may help enhance recovery programs by promoting natural rewards and reducing drug cravings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for substance use disorder, reducing relapse rates and improving recovery outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results regarding the therapeutic potential of oxytocin in addiction treatment, indicating that this approach is being actively explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Memphis
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lester, Deranda B — University of Memphis
- Study coordinator: Lester, Deranda B
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.