Understanding how certain brain receptors and channels interact in drug addiction
Official title: Determining the Molecular Arrangement of GABABR-GIRK Signaling Cascades
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11162681 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain proteins work together and how drugs like alcohol and cocaine can mess with that teamwork, which could help us find better ways to treat addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 23, 2025 |
| Project end | May 22, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 1F32DA063169-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11162681 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with substance use disorders, particularly those affected by drugs like alcohol, cocaine, or GHB.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of substance use or are not affected by the drugs being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular interactions between GABAB receptors and GIRK channels, which are crucial for inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. By examining how these proteins communicate and organize within signaling pathways, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms disrupted by drugs of abuse like alcohol and cocaine. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these interactions affect addiction and could lead to new treatment strategies. The research employs advanced biochemical techniques to analyze protein-protein interactions and signaling cascades.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for treating drug addiction by targeting specific molecular interactions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding GPCR signaling pathways, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into addiction mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Knight, Kevin Michael — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Knight, Kevin Michael
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.