Targeting brain pathways to reduce cocaine cravings
Pathway-specific Intervention in Prelimbic Cortical Circuitry Decreases Cocaine-seeking
This study is looking at how a special protein can help people recovering from cocaine addiction by reducing their cravings and preventing relapse, using animal models to find new ways to support recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892833 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific brain interventions can help reduce cravings for cocaine in individuals recovering from addiction. By infusing a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) into a specific area of the brain after cocaine use, the study aims to prevent changes that lead to relapse. The approach focuses on understanding the brain's response to drug-related cues and how early interventions can alter these responses to support recovery. The research uses animal models to explore these mechanisms, which could eventually inform new treatments for people struggling with cocaine dependence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cocaine use who are in recovery and at risk of relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who are not recovering from cocaine addiction or who have not previously used cocaine may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce the risk of relapse in individuals recovering from cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using brain-targeted interventions to alter addiction-related behaviors, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcginty, Jacqueline F. — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Mcginty, Jacqueline F.
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.