Understanding how brain development and environment influence substance use in young people

Neurobehavioral pathways of polygenic and polyenvironmental effects on the onset and maintenance of substance involvement

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10893978

This study is looking at how genes, environment, and behavior together influence substance use in teens and young adults, and it wants to find out when people are most at risk for using substances as their brains develop, so if you join, you'll help us learn more about these important connections!

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10893978 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and neurobehavioral factors that contribute to substance use and disorders, particularly during adolescence and young adulthood. By examining how brain maturation affects emotional regulation and decision-making, the study aims to identify critical periods when individuals are most vulnerable to substance use. The research employs a combination of behavioral assessments and neuroimaging techniques to explore these relationships over a five-year period. Patients may be asked to participate in assessments that help researchers understand their experiences and behaviors related to substance use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include adolescents and young adults who are experiencing or at risk for substance use issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not within the adolescent to young adult age range or those without any substance use concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for substance use disorders in young people.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobehavioral mechanisms of substance use, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.