Understanding how brain cells communicate in cocaine addiction
Official title: PACAP-Dependent Coordination of Glutamate Signaling between Neurons and Astrocytes
Funded at Marquette University · NIH-10834057 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain cells communicate differently when someone is addicted to cocaine, focusing on a special protein called PACAP, to help understand how we might improve treatments for addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Marquette University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2020 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $411,246 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA050180-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10834057 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with cocaine addiction or those with a history of substance abuse.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not addicted to cocaine or other substances may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex signaling between neurons and astrocytes, a type of brain cell, specifically focusing on how these interactions are altered in cocaine addiction. By examining the role of a neuropeptide called PACAP, the study aims to uncover how neurons regulate the release of glutamate from astrocytes, which is crucial for controlling brain activity and behaviors associated with addiction. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze these cellular communications and their implications for addiction treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating cocaine addiction by targeting the signaling pathways involved.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting PACAP in glutamate signaling is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding the role of astrocytes in addiction.
Where this research is happening
-
Marquette University
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baker, David a — Marquette University
- Study coordinator: Baker, David a
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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.