Understanding how certain brain receptors affect impulsive behavior related to cocaine addiction
Official title: Cholinergic interneuron D2 receptor function in impulsive behavior: implications for addiction
Funded at Fordham University · NIH-11110431 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors related to dopamine affect impulsive behavior in people who have used cocaine for a long time, with the hope of finding new ways to help them make better decisions and avoid relapse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fordham University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $413,623 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA055018-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11110431 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cocaine use who experience difficulties with impulse control and decision-making.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of cocaine use or those with other forms of addiction unrelated to cocaine may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of dopamine D2 receptors in cholinergic interneurons and their impact on impulsive behavior, particularly in the context of chronic cocaine abuse. By focusing on specific brain circuits, the study aims to clarify how these receptors influence decision-making and impulse control, which are often impaired in individuals with addiction. The researchers will employ cell-selective strategies to explore the mechanisms by which these receptors affect behavior, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches for reducing relapse in cocaine users.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help individuals with cocaine addiction improve their impulse control and reduce the risk of relapse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of dopamine receptors in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Fordham University
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gallo, Eduardo Francisco — Fordham University
- Study coordinator: Gallo, Eduardo Francisco
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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.