Understanding how brain function relates to substance use in teenagers

Neurocognitive Fingerprints of Substance Use and Misuse in Adolescents

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-10698046

This study is looking at how certain brain functions and decision-making skills can affect substance use in teens aged 12 to 20, helping us understand why some young people might be more at risk for using alcohol and drugs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-10698046 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neurocognitive factors that influence substance use and misuse among adolescents aged 12 to 20. By analyzing data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study, the research aims to identify specific brain functions and decision-making processes that may predict risky behaviors related to alcohol and drug use. The study combines neuroimaging and behavioral data to create 'neurocognitive fingerprints' that can help in understanding individual vulnerabilities to substance misuse. This approach seeks to provide insights into how cognitive control and emotional sensitivity affect substance use behaviors during critical developmental years.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who may be experiencing or are at risk for substance use or misuse.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those who do not engage in substance use behaviors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that help prevent substance misuse in adolescents by identifying at-risk individuals based on their neurocognitive profiles.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in linking neurocognitive factors to substance use behaviors, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.