Understanding how certain brain proteins affect addiction to cocaine

Biochemically counteracting maladaptive functions of G9a/GLP in addiction

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11119527

This study is looking at how certain proteins in the brain might affect addiction to cocaine and other stimulants, with the hope that understanding these proteins could help create better treatments for people struggling with addiction.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11119527 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific proteins, G9a and GLP, in the development of addictive behaviors related to cocaine and other stimulants. By studying animal models and examining brain tissue from individuals with a history of cocaine use, the research aims to uncover how these proteins influence gene expression in the brain's reward center. The goal is to determine whether manipulating these proteins can lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating addiction. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with cocaine addiction or those who have a history of stimulant use.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by addiction or those with other types of substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help individuals overcome cocaine addiction.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of epigenetic factors in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: addictive disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.