Understanding how changes in brain circuitry affect cocaine use
Altered Midbrain GABAergic Circuitry Drives Greater Cocaine Self-administration
This study is looking at how cocaine affects certain brain pathways and how a protein called KCC2 might help us find new ways to treat people struggling with cocaine addiction, since there aren’t any approved medications for it right now.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11035213 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cocaine use alters specific brain circuits that may lead to increased addiction. By focusing on a protein called KCC2, which is involved in the functioning of GABA neurons in the midbrain, the study aims to identify potential new treatments for cocaine use disorder. The researchers will explore how these changes in brain circuitry can be targeted to reduce cocaine consumption and cravings. This work is crucial as there are currently no FDA-approved medications for treating cocaine addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with cocaine addiction or those at risk of developing cocaine use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use cocaine or have other forms of substance use disorder unrelated to cocaine may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new medications that effectively treat cocaine use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting similar brain mechanisms for addiction treatment, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dani, John a. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Dani, John a.
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 below.