Targeting astrocyte genes in the brain to affect drug-related behavior
Official title: Targeting the midbrain astrocyte epigenome to regulate drug-dependent behavior
Funded at University of Texas San Antonio · NIH-11294695 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how brain-support cells called astrocytes influence drug-taking and seeking to help people who struggle with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas San Antonio NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $185,279 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA064861-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11294695 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are patients with substance use disorders or those at risk of relapse who may benefit from future therapies derived from this work.
✕Less likely to help
Healthy individuals or those not affected by substance use disorders are unlikely to benefit directly.
What this research studies
This project focuses on how changes in the brain’s chromatin—the packaging of DNA and proteins—affect astrocytes in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and their role in drug use. By examining chromatin accessibility and gene regulation in VTA astrocytes, the team aims to identify how prior cocaine exposure alters astrocyte function to reduce drug intake. The study uses advanced analyses to link chromatin changes with transcriptional shifts and behavioral outcomes in animal models. If successful, the work could reveal targets for therapies that modulate astrocyte function to support recovery from addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could identify new brain-based targets to help reduce drug craving and relapse.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work shows astrocytes influence drug-related behaviors, but pontentially novel chromatin-focused mechanisms in VTA astrocytes are being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas San Antonio
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wanat, Matthew J. — University of Texas San Antonio
- Study coordinator: Wanat, Matthew J.
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.