Understanding how brain cells influence motivation and drug relapse
Official title: Cellular and Behavioral Function of Astrocytic Dopamine Signaling
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11134675 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called astrocytes influence motivation and cravings for drugs, which could help us understand addiction better and find new ways to treat it.
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 start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $446,408 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA060868-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134675 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals struggling with substance use disorders, particularly those affected by cocaine addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of substance use disorders or those not affected by cocaine-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in the nucleus accumbens, which is crucial for motivation and reward-seeking behavior. The study focuses on how dopamine signaling in these astrocytes affects behaviors related to drug addiction, particularly in the context of cues that trigger cravings and relapse. By using animal models, the researchers will explore the cellular mechanisms involved when these cues are paired with rewards, aiming to uncover new insights into the brain's response to drugs of abuse. This could lead to a better understanding of addiction and potential new treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for treating drug addiction and preventing relapse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in addiction, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dong, Yan — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Dong, Yan
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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.