Understanding Brain Changes in Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine-induced mitochondrial mechanisms and molecular mediators in reward circuitry
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE · NIH-11125862
This project explores how cocaine changes brain cells and their energy factories, called mitochondria, to better understand addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11125862 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Cocaine addiction is a challenging disease where people compulsively seek drugs despite negative effects. This research looks into how repeated cocaine use causes lasting changes in the brain's reward system, specifically focusing on how tiny powerhouses within brain cells, called mitochondria, are affected. We want to understand how these mitochondrial changes contribute to the brain's altered function and drug-seeking behaviors. By studying these molecular processes, we hope to uncover new ways to help people overcome addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future clinical trials based on these findings would likely seek individuals with cocaine use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients not struggling with cocaine addiction or other substance use disorders would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target specific brain changes to reduce drug cravings and relapse in individuals with cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Initial studies have shown that mitochondrial processes and a molecule called Drp1 play a role in brain changes related to cocaine seeking, suggesting this is a promising area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LOBO, MARY KAY — UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE
- Study coordinator: LOBO, MARY KAY
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.