Understanding Genetic Differences in Substance Use Disorders
High-Throughput Functional Genomics of Variants in Genes Linked to Substance Use Disorders
This work aims to uncover how specific genetic differences contribute to substance use disorders, helping us find new ways to help people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11111446 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that many genetic differences are connected to substance use disorders, but we don't yet understand what most of these differences actually do. This project uses advanced lab techniques to test thousands of these genetic variations to see how they affect the body's biology. By understanding the specific roles these genetic changes play, we can gain a clearer picture of why substance use disorders develop. This deeper knowledge is essential for creating new and more effective treatments in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational genetic work does not directly involve patient participation, but future clinical applications would target individuals with substance use disorders.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for substance use disorders would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of the root causes of substance use disorders, paving the way for new, targeted treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the overall approach of linking genetics to disease is established, the high-throughput methods used to functionally test thousands of variants are innovative and less commonly applied at this scale for substance use disorders.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baldridge, Dustin M — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Baldridge, Dustin 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.