Understanding how cocaine affects brain signals related to addiction
Accumbal integration of brain wide glutamatergic inputs and their dysregulation by cocaine self-administration
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY · NIH-11083694
This study is looking at how cocaine affects a part of the brain that helps us feel pleasure and learn, with the hope of finding new ways to help people struggling with cocaine addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11083694 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cocaine use alters the brain's nucleus accumbens, a key area involved in processing rewards and learning. By examining the glutamatergic inputs that influence this region, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms behind cocaine addiction. Using advanced techniques like calcium imaging, researchers will observe brain activity in real-time in awake animals to better understand the changes that occur with cocaine exposure. The goal is to identify potential targets for new treatments for cocaine use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with cocaine use disorder or those at risk of developing addiction.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use cocaine or have other types of substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel therapies for cocaine addiction, addressing a significant gap in current treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding addiction mechanisms, but this approach of simultaneous recording in awake animals is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY — Nashville, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GABRIEL, STEPHANIE ANN CAJIGAS — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: GABRIEL, STEPHANIE ANN CAJIGAS
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.
Conditions: addictive disorder