Parkin helps brain energy stay steady in meth use disorder
Official title: Investigating Parkin-mediated Neuronal Energy Maintenance in Methamphetamine Use Disorder
Funded at Wayne State University · NIH-11367972 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aims to see if boosting a brain protective protein called parkin can reduce cravings and risky behavior in people (via a rat model and related studies) who struggle with methamphetamine use disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $277,787 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA057384-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11367972 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with methamphetamine use disorder who may benefit from future brain-targeted therapies or related clinical studies.
✕Less likely to help
People without methamphetamine use disorder or related neurological conditions are unlikely to benefit from this specific research focus.
What this research studies
This project uses a rat model of heavy meth use to explore whether increasing parkin in a key reward area of the brain helps keep cellular energy stable. The researchers will examine how parkin affects mitochondrial health and the Krebs cycle to support ATP production in neurons exposed to meth. If parkin helps maintain energy, it may reduce cravings and drug-seeking behaviors. The study builds on proteomic data showing parkin levels influence energy-related enzymes in the brain. Results could point to new targets for treatments that support brain energy and curb meth-related addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new brain-targeted approaches to reduce cravings and help people quit methamphetamine use.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work in animal models suggests manipulating parkin affects mitochondrial health and energy pathways linked to addictive behaviors, supporting potential translational value.
Where this research is happening
-
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moszczynska, Anna — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Moszczynska, Anna
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Calming cue-triggered cravings in methamphetamine use
Seeing if teaching people with methamphetamine use disorder a thinking-based skill (cognitive reappraisal) can reduce brain and craving reactions to drug cues.
-
Psilocybin for treatment of methamphetamine use disorder
A study is testing whether psilocybin can help people with methamphetamine use disorder feel better and stay abstinent, starting with a small, carefully monitored group.
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Reducing Methamphetamine Use to Improve Health and Well-Being
A clinical trial tests whether giving incentives to people with methamphetamine use disorder helps them use less meth and improves heart, immune, sleep, and psychosocial health.
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Mobilizing Recovery Resources to Improve HIV Care for People Using Methamphetamine
A patient-friendly project to help people living with HIV who use methamphetamine strengthen personal and community supports to stay engaged in care.
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Psilocybin-assisted therapy for methamphetamine use disorder in people with HIV
A small, carefully controlled study will test whether psilocybin, given with support, can help people living with HIV who have moderate-to-severe methamphetamine use disorder.
-
Tirzepatide for Methamphetamine Use Disorder in adults with diabetes
A study will test whether an approved diabetes drug, tirzepatide, helps adults with methamphetamine use disorder who have diabetes.
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.