Restoring reward responses in people who smoke using targeted brain stimulation and robotic guidance
Recovery of reward function in nicotine use disorder using a combination of robotics, electrophysiology, and TMS
This project uses targeted brain stimulation, brain recordings, and robotic guidance to try to restore normal reward responses in people trying to quit smoking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11412220 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would have your brain activity recorded while doing simple tasks that compare responses to money versus smoking cues to measure reward signals. Researchers will use robotic guidance to precisely aim transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) at the midcingulate and nearby regions while monitoring changes with electrophysiology (EEG). Multiple stimulation and recording sessions will be delivered, including brief periods of abstinence, to see whether the approach shifts reward bias away from drug-related cues. Participation involves several in-person visits at the research site for TMS, EEG, and behavioral testing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who regularly smoke cigarettes, meet criteria for nicotine use disorder, are willing to abstain briefly, and can attend multiple in-person TMS and EEG sessions are the best fit.
Not a fit: People with seizure history, certain implanted metal devices in the head, pregnancy, or those not trying to quit smoking may be ineligible or unlikely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce craving and help restore healthier decision-making to support quitting smoking.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier studies found 10‑Hz prefrontal TMS can normalize the reward signal in people with substance problems, but combining robotic targeting with direct electrophysiology to optimally modulate the midcingulate is a new, more precise approach.
Where this research is happening
Newark, United States
- Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baker, Travis E. — Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark
- Study coordinator: Baker, Travis E.
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.