Understanding how brain circuits influence behavior related to rewards and addiction
Probing the role of a hypothalamic-thalamic-striatal circuit in cue-driven behaviors
This study looks at how certain parts of the brain influence our behavior when we see things that remind us of rewards, like food or drugs, and it’s designed for anyone interested in understanding addiction better, especially how some cues can make it hard to resist using substances even when we want to stop.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10889984 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain brain circuits in the hypothalamus, thalamus, and striatum affect behaviors driven by cues associated with rewards, such as food or drugs. By studying animal models, specifically rats, the researchers aim to differentiate between how these cues can predict rewards and how they can compel individuals to seek out substances despite a desire to abstain. The study utilizes advanced techniques to manipulate specific neural pathways and observe their effects on behavior, providing insights into the mechanisms of addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with substance use disorders who may benefit from understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of their behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of substance use or those with other unrelated behavioral disorders may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating addiction by targeting specific brain circuits involved in cue-driven behaviors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding the role of brain circuits in addiction, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Flagel, Shelly Beth — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Flagel, Shelly Beth
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.