Understanding Brain Chemistry in Cocaine Use
PET Imaging of neurochemical transmission in cocaine use disorders
This project looks at how brain chemicals change in people with cocaine use disorder to understand why relapse happens.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099804 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people with cocaine use disorder experience relapse, even after periods of not using. We believe that an imbalance in the brain's stress and anti-stress systems might be a key reason for this. Using special brain scans called PET, we are looking at a specific brain chemical system, Nociceptin, which helps the brain cope with stress. By seeing how Nociceptin levels change in people with cocaine use disorder, we hope to find new ways to prevent relapse.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this type of research would be individuals with cocaine use disorder, particularly those who are currently abstinent or have a history of relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have cocaine use disorder or are not interested in brain imaging techniques would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new medications that help prevent relapse for individuals recovering from cocaine use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous PET studies have already shown differences in Nociceptin binding in individuals with cocaine use disorder compared to healthy controls, suggesting this approach builds on existing findings.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Narendran, Rajesh — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Narendran, Rajesh
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.