Targeting CD74 to treat stimulant use disorder

Immunotherapeutic Targeting CD74 as a Treatment for Stimulant Use Disorder

NIH-funded research Virogenomics Biodevelopment, INC. · NIH-10932039

This study is looking at a new treatment for people struggling with methamphetamine addiction by testing a special molecule that might help reduce cravings and improve thinking skills, aiming to offer hope where other treatments haven't worked.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirogenomics Biodevelopment, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tigard, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10932039 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to treating stimulant use disorder, particularly focusing on methamphetamine addiction. It aims to evaluate a molecule called DRhQ, which targets CD74, a receptor involved in inflammatory responses that may influence addictive behaviors. The study will utilize preclinical animal models to assess the effectiveness of this treatment in reducing drug-seeking behavior and improving cognitive function. By exploring immune factors in addiction, this research seeks to develop a novel therapeutic option where current treatments have failed.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with stimulant use disorder, particularly those who have struggled with methamphetamine addiction.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by stimulant use disorder or those who have not used methamphetamine may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new FDA-approved treatment for individuals struggling with stimulant use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting immune factors in addiction is emerging, this specific method using CD74 is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in human subjects.

Where this research is happening

Tigard, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.