Targeting specific receptors to help treat cocaine addiction
Selective Targeting of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Subtypes for Cocaine Use Disorder
This study is looking at new medications to help people struggling with cocaine addiction by targeting a specific brain receptor, and it aims to show how these new compounds can reduce cravings and prevent relapse in animal models, which could eventually lead to a new treatment for those in need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11043406 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new medications to treat cocaine use disorder by targeting a specific type of receptor in the brain known as the α3β4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. The researchers aim to create a novel class of compounds that can selectively inhibit these receptors, which have been shown to play a significant role in addiction. By testing these compounds in animal models, the study seeks to demonstrate their effectiveness in reducing drug-seeking behavior and relapse. This approach could lead to the development of a much-needed FDA-approved treatment for stimulant use disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cocaine use disorder who are seeking treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with cocaine addiction or those who have not been diagnosed with a substance use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective medication for individuals struggling with cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited success with similar approaches, this research aims to explore a novel pathway that has not yet been fully tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Riley, Andrew — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Riley, Andrew
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.