Understanding Brain Signals for Addiction Relapse
Noradrenergic Regulation in the BNST
This research explores how stress triggers drug-seeking behaviors by looking at specific brain signals in a region called the BNST, aiming to find better ways to prevent addiction relapse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11191519 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Addiction relapse is a major challenge, and stress often plays a big role in bringing back drug-seeking behaviors. We know that certain medications, called alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists, can sometimes help block stress-induced relapse in animal models by acting on a brain area called the BNST. However, our previous work found some unexpected ways these receptors can actually encourage relapse, which might limit how effective these medications are. This project aims to understand these complex brain signals, specifically how a medication called guanfacine might excite certain BNST cells to drive drug-seeking. By mapping these brain circuits and understanding how they work at a cellular level, we hope to uncover new targets for addiction treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not recruiting patients directly but aims to benefit individuals struggling with addiction, particularly those prone to stress-induced relapse.
Not a fit: Patients not currently experiencing addiction or those whose relapse is not primarily stress-induced may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new medications or strategies that more effectively prevent addiction relapse by targeting specific brain pathways involved in stress-induced drug-seeking.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists can block stress-induced drug-seeking, but this research explores unexpected pro-reinstatement actions, making it a novel investigation into complex brain mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Winder, Danny G. — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Winder, Danny G.
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.