Understanding how cocaine memories affect cravings and relapse
Hippocampal mechanisms of cocaine-memory reconsolidation
This study is looking at how memories of using cocaine can lead to cravings and relapse in people who are trying to quit, and it aims to find ways to weaken those cravings by understanding how these memories work in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11055413 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind how memories of cocaine use can trigger cravings and relapse in individuals who have stopped using the drug. By studying animal models, the researchers aim to understand how these memories are stored and recalled in the brain, particularly focusing on the hippocampus. The study will explore how disrupting the reconsolidation of these memories can potentially weaken cravings and reduce the likelihood of relapse. The ultimate goal is to identify specific cellular and molecular targets for future therapies that could help individuals struggling with cocaine use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cocaine use who are seeking treatment for cocaine use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who have never used cocaine or those with other substance use disorders unrelated to cocaine may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that help reduce cravings and prevent relapse in individuals recovering from cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding memory reconsolidation in addiction, suggesting that this approach could be effective in developing new treatments.
Where this research is happening
Pullman, United States
- Washington State University — Pullman, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fuchs Lokensgard, Rita a — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Fuchs Lokensgard, Rita 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.