Targeting brain circuits to help people with schizophrenia quit smoking
Official title: Network-Targeted Neuromodulation for Nicotine Dependence in Schizophrenia
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11014359 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain areas related to nicotine cravings can be helped with a special treatment called brain stimulation, to make it easier for people with schizophrenia to quit smoking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $185,544 |
| NIH project number | 5K23DA059690-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014359 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who are also dependent on nicotine and seeking help to quit smoking.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have schizophrenia or those who are not nicotine dependent may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific brain circuits related to nicotine dependence in individuals with schizophrenia can be targeted to help reduce cravings for cigarettes. Using advanced techniques like repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), the study aims to modify the Default Mode Network (DMN), a brain circuit identified as crucial for nicotine craving. By comparing the effects of different interventions on this network, the research seeks to develop more effective smoking cessation strategies tailored for those with schizophrenia, who often struggle with existing treatments. Participants may experience a novel approach to managing their cravings through brain stimulation techniques.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective smoking cessation methods specifically designed for individuals with schizophrenia, potentially improving their overall health and life expectancy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using brain stimulation techniques for addiction treatment, suggesting that this approach may be effective, though it is specifically tailored for schizophrenia in this case.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ward, Heather Burrell — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Ward, Heather Burrell
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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.