Understanding brain networks involved in cocaine cravings
Brain Network States Underlying Cocaine Craving
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11042141
This study is looking at how long-term stress impacts the brain's ability to handle cravings for cocaine, focusing on certain brain cells that might play a big role in both stress and addiction, with the hope of finding better ways to help people struggling with substance use.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11042141 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic stress affects brain networks related to cocaine cravings and addiction. It focuses on specific brain cells in the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminals (BNST) that are involved in stress responses and anxiety, which can lead to drug relapse. By using advanced techniques like optogenetics and fiber photometry, the study aims to uncover the role of these brain cells in addiction and stress-related behaviors. The findings could help identify new treatment targets for substance use disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cocaine use and related stress or anxiety disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of substance use or those with other unrelated psychological disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for individuals struggling with cocaine addiction and related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting brain mechanisms related to addiction, but this specific approach focusing on BNSTPKCd cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
DURHAM, UNITED STATES
- DUKE UNIVERSITY — DURHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WILLIFORD, KELLIE M — DUKE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WILLIFORD, KELLIE M
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.
Conditions: addictive disorder