Understanding how brain signals influence drug-seeking behavior
Official title: Characterizing BLA dopaminergic and glutamatergic mechanisms of dynamic drug seeking
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11031318 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain areas and signals can make people crave drugs like cocaine when they see things that remind them of using, and it hopes to find new ways to help those struggling with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | February 12, 2024 |
| Project end | February 11, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,032 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DA060004-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031318 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with cocaine addiction or those at risk of relapse due to environmental triggers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not dealing with addiction or those who do not have a history of substance use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and dopamine signaling in addiction, particularly focusing on how environmental cues can trigger cravings and relapse in individuals. By using advanced tools to observe and manipulate specific neurons in the brain, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that drive drug-seeking behaviors, especially in response to cocaine-related stimuli. The findings could provide insights into the emotional learning processes associated with addiction and help develop new treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for addiction, helping patients manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of brain circuitry in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brickner, Megan a — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Brickner, Megan 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.